https://www.worldometers.info/gdp/gdp-by-country/

The SAVE act 

The Bill: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/22

USA Today summary piece: 

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/2025/04/11/what-is-save-act-2025/83042307007/

https://newrepublic.com/post/193868/democrats-save-act-bill-harder-married-women-vote

https://apnews.com/article/congress-save-act-citizenship-republicans-women-0c0ba9fd8e6a01cf144736490c71df21

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https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/13/repub/judge-orders-rehiring-of-thousands-of-fired-probationary-federal-employees/

https://missouriindependent.com/2025/03/13/repub/democratic-attorneys-general-sue-trump-over-u-s-education-department-layoffs/

https://www.missourinet.com/2025/03/14/bid-to-scrap-missouris-minimum-wage-paid-sick-leave-law-wins-house-approval/

https://www.missourinet.com/2025/03/14/missouri-moves-closer-to-banning-gps-trackers-used-to-secretly-monitor-people/

https://www.missourinet.com/2025/03/12/missouri-supreme-court-hears-lawsuit-on-minimum-wage-and-paid-sick-leave-law/

https://themissouritimes.com/missouri-continues-to-face-childcare-deserts/

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Basics: https://www.law.cornell.edu/wex/unitary_executive_theory_%28uet%29

US Constitution Art. 2

The Virginia Plan Context

NY Times Article on Vance comments

Guardian article on Courts

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• Trumps disgusting claims of DEI as a CAUSE drew  broad reaction, because it’s just demonstrably false but it’s a disgusting devaluing of the lives lost 
• https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/trump-plane-crash-dei-press-conference-biden-faa-washington-dc-rcna190020

Trumps Trade War - Buckle Up

• Good time to fill a freezer, or buy one if you don’t have one 
• Trump imposes new tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada and China 
• https://www.npr.org/2025/02/01/g-s1-46010/trump-tariffs-mexico-canada-and-china-imports
• https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/trump-slaps-tariffs-canada-mexico-china-risking-higher-prices-us-consu-rcna190185
• 
   

Fired chief of federal consumer watchdog 

https://www.npr.org/2025/02/01/nx-s1-5254186/cfpb-consumer-financial-protection-cfpb-trump-chopra

Chaos with student loans

Most of you listening probably don’t need me to even say it, but it is all, across the board, the Project 2025 playbook. 

Now we see if the folks who wanted Trump back enjoy the impact. Because it will continue and will only get worse. 

Find your people. Start small. Build up locally. You can’t change reality overnight. 

——-

Missouri Abortion Updates 

Mo Amendment 3 passed - where are we now? 

Statute: https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=188.017

December court ruling: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/missouri-judge-rules-states-abortion-ban-is-unenforceable-after-constitutional-amendment

The follow up:

https://missouriindependent.com/2025/02/01/missouri-planned-parenthood-abortion-access-jackson-county/

Mo GOP still scheming to undue voters will: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/12/20/missouri-republicans-restrict-abortion-amendment-3/

Good thought to share

https://missouriindependent.com/2025/01/27/a-wicked-reckoning-in-missouri-progressive-politics/

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Missouri - attack in home  

https://www.ksdk.com/article/news/crime/missouri-man-immigration-officer-kidnapped-woman-demanded-citizenship-documents-trump/63-6187037a-2cdb-4cad-b11d-5cc5deabb156

Colorado - assailant shouting trumps America against an american citizen…

https://www.yahoo.com/news/pacific-islander-journalist-colorado-strangled-181322276.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly9sLmZhY2Vib29rLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAGdmFksgrdbNe8GelOdOI6lAVUPlcvfd3Y_v-1h8RhpUvP_8TjqTwbnXpJ26PYgrf0BIhiOO0Fx3Nriicvc8zSxpqknfmKdvemLJVT2WZ8z3isoMe6x59ny720EzLVWtE8x5gcqQ-ZPIMGEL6T7HKrMQR2F6cco7UWTUdnmE6Sz0

Executive Order language

https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/2025/01/defending-women-from-gender-ideology-extremism-and-restoring-biological-truth-to-the-federal-government/

(d)  “Female” means a person belonging, at conception, to the sex that produces the large reproductive cell.

(e)  “Male” means a person belonging, at conception, to the sex that produces the small reproductive cell.

The average age of death: 

https://u.demog.berkeley.edu/~andrew/1918/figure2.html

https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/history-corporate-personhood

Also an NPR from 2011 that’s on point: https://www.npr.org/2011/10/24/141663195/what-is-the-basis-for-corporate-personhood

According to Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/billionaires/

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First: WE HAD THIS THE WHOLE WAY

ABORTION > Inflation https://apnews.com/article/younger-women-abortion-survey-c8c504a7b9b5a92b4c101a57a3e3a4dc

HEARTLAND

1. Missouri - Mike Kehoe won’t acknowledge 2020 election results any longer 
   1. https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article293616364.html
   2. Same basic lines as Vance -https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/11/us/politics/vance-trump-2020-election-results.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
2. This is made more interesting since the available polling shows Kehoe in enough of a lead that he could just do nothing and likely win the race https://www.270towin.com/2024-governor-polls/missouri
3. Gateway pundit takes down LIES 
4. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/oct/10/gateway-pundit-defamation-lawsuit-election-workers
5. Ashcroft at election security summit - I’m sure it’s definitely focused on fairness right?https://missouriindependent.com/2024/10/10/midwest-secretaries-of-state-host-election-security-and-integrity-summit-in-nebraska/
6. Meanwhile… Josh Hawley has embraced the lavish life of private jets he once used to campaign against McCaskill https://www.threads.net/@lucaskuncemo/post/DBB8UBDOy-D?xmt=AQGzAnm4nh7Oig3Yfg01939kHdDrBKEg_UCiaSpP_wdN9A

NATIONAL

1. National -Republicans lies about FEMA response 
   1. Obama not having it (clip) https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/11/politics/video/barack-obama-pittsburg-speech-donald-trump-misinformation-digvid?cid=ios_app
   2. AID WORKERhttps://x.com/bradbeauregardj/status/1844462907704172699?s=46&t=mukZUfs5M_R3E9tAHIu-GA
2. Trump and MAGA claims about funding for relief being used for migrants is the epitome of nationalistic xenophobia - and was a total lie
   1. https://www.npr.org/2024/10/07/nx-s1-5144159/fema-funding-migrants-disaster-relief-fund
3. Fox News pushing major lies:
   1. https://x.com/decodingfoxnews/status/1844598082719072588?s=46&t=mukZUfs5M_R3E9tAHIu-GA
4. People REJECTING help from FEMA
   1. https://www.msnbc.com/morning-joe/watch/man-says-father-in-law-refusing-all-fema-help-because-of-trump-221374533846
   2. The lies are causing at least some rift with GOPhttps://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/10/10/hurricane-helene-republicans-trump/
5. Harris doing media, including town hall, seems like she had a very good week amid the chaos 
   1. Guardian op Ed: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/oct/12/a-week-in-a-swing-state-taught-me-a-lot-about-the-maga-cult-and-gave-me-hope-for-kamala-harris-pennsylvania
6. From the great Dr. Tim Snyder, on why fascists are able to use lies to their vast (and FWIW historical) advantage: https://snyder.substack.com/p/from-the-storm-to-the-stormtroopers
7. Musk is helping Trump by censoring Twitter after buying Twitter to allegedly allow for free speech 
   1. https://www.thedailybeast.com/elon-musk-censors-jd-vance-leak-goes-full-tilt-for-donald-trump
8. And here is why I remain optimistic (clip)
   1. https://x.com/atrupar/status/1844765778865782934?s=46&t=mukZUfs5M_R3E9tAHIu-GA

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Jason Isbell: https://www.jasonisbell.com/home

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Kunce calls Hawley’s bluff

Speaking of chickens… Iowa residents cry “fowl” about backyard bird issues

Missourians will vote on abortion issue in November

Republicans in MO accused of tampering with votes

Meanwhile former Colorado republican clerk is found GUILTY of exactly that

Finally, in MO the GOP attempt to ban ranked choice voting awaits its fate

Lots to do, so let’s go! 

Adam Sommer with Sean Diller - reminder learn more about us and check out our union made merch like the make abortion legal again hat at the heartland collective dot com, sign up there for $5 to be a patreon supporter and help us product this independent media content 

Kunce calls Hawley’s bluff, but Hawley won’t confirm real debates

https://www.kfvs12.com/video/2024/08/15/hawley-kunce-face-off-missouri-state-fair/

Speaking of chickens… Iowa residents cry “fowl” about backyard bird issues

https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/08/12/neighbors-and-city-policymakers-cry-fowl-about-backyard-chickens/

Missourians will vote on abortion issue in November - along with $15 min wage, paid sick leave, and sports gambling

https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/13/missouri-voters-will-decide-whether-to-legalize-abortion-in-november/

Republicans in MO accused of tampering with votes

https://fox2now.com/news/missouri/st-charles-county-voters-suspect-voter-fraud-from-election-director/?utm_campaign=socialflow&utm_source=t.co&utm_medium=referral

Meanwhile former Colorado republican clerk is found GUILTY of exactly that

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/13/tina-peters-guilty-colorado-2020-election-denier

Finally, in MO the GOP attempt to ban ranked choice voting awaits its fate

https://www.kfvs12.com/2024/08/13/missouri-lawsuit-ranked-choice-voting-ban-ballot-language-awaits-judgment/

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Marcellus “Khaliifah” Williams is scheduled for execution on September 24, despite DNA evidence proving his innocence. The St. Louis County Prosecuting Attorney has filed a motion to vacate his conviction, citing the exculpatory DNA evidence. A hearing is set for August 21 to review this evidence. The case against Williams was based on unreliable witness testimony, and forensic evidence from the crime scene does not match him. Despite these findings, the Missouri Attorney General is pushing for his execution. This case highlights issues of wrongful convictions and racial bias in the justice system.

https://innocenceproject.org/ag-asks-missouri-supreme-court-to-block-hearing-on-dna-evidence-marcellus-williams-innocence/

https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/missouri/article289696334.html

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QUICK HITS

Nelly Gettin’ Araigned In Here: https://krcgtv.com/news/local/rapper-nelly-arrested-in-st-louis-area-for-ecstasy-possession-lack-of-insurance-maryland-heights-police-department-drugs-cornell-haynes

Michigan Senate Race one to watch: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/06/michigan-senate-primary-results-00172987

Mo Senate debate debates: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/09/josh-hawley-lucas-kunce-remain-at-an-impasse-on-missouri-u-s-senate-debates/

True or False:

Missouri GOP Getting Too Cute With Ranked Choice Voting

Missouri GOP Trying to End Ranked Choice Voting… But To What end? 

From St Louis Daily Newsletter:

https://info.stlmag.com/daily-newsletter-080924

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• In terms of prediction he was someone folks liked plenty but came on strong later in the process
• Owns no stock: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/08/07/walz-stocks-real-estate-harris-election.html
• Rise no accident: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/07/us/politics/tim-walz-kamala-harris-2024.html
• Military record issue?https://www.washingtonpost.com/elections/2024/08/07/tim-walz-military-record/
• Trump said Walz did well in 2020 and now trying to attack him on riots after George Floyd murder: https://abcnews.go.com/US/despite-new-criticism-trump-told-walz-2020-happy/story?id=112616502

Dem floor leader, Rep. Crystal Quade takes on Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe in Missouri gov race

https://missouriindependent.com/2024/08/06/crystal-quade-captures-democratic-nomination-for-missouri-governor/

Marion Co. Newspaper Raid Will Result In charges

https://kansasreflector.com/2024/08/05/special-prosecutors-plan-to-file-criminal-charge-against-police-chief-who-led-marion-raid/

Kansas Dem Gov. Laura Kelly replaces Tim Walz as head of  Dem Gov. Association: https://kansasreflector.com/2024/08/07/kansas-gov-laura-kelly-assumes-leadership-of-democratic-governors-association/

Host: Adam Sommer 

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“Change The Conversation”

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Quick Hits: Senators are softening the ground to pass major border legislation and Mark Kelly is using it in the Veepstakes: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2024-election/sen-mark-kelly-rips-trump-role-killing-bipartisan-border-bill-rcna164443

Mitch and Graham BOTH blame trump, by name, on the mic: https://x.com/kamalahq/status/1819065900529545685?s=46&t=mukZUfs5M_R3E9tAHIu-GA

Missouri GOP candidate and pastor uses church to funnel funds to campaign: https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article290629949.html

True or False: 

The Harris For President Train Is Fueled By The Dobbs Case, and the fuel supply is unlimited. 

• Abortion is wicked popular, 3/4 favor ROE being the law: https://www.forbes.com/sites/alisondurkee/2024/07/30/how-americans-really-feel-about-abortion-the-sometimes-surprising-poll-results-as-2024-election-heats-up/
• 
   
• FLORIDA… is poised to legalize abortion: https://flvoicenews.com/new-poll-suggests-florida-pro-abortion-pro-weed-amendments-will-pass-in-november/

Yeah…No:

Missouri CD1 - Wesley Bell’s phone call telling Rep. Bush he won’t run, and his response to the audio that she was going to endorse him

• HUGE money in that race
• https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/aug/03/cori-bush-wesley-bell-missouri-election

Gov race and AG: Trump’s super weak universal endorsements: https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/election/article290586759.html

Reminder: Friends don’t let friends vote for Mike Hamra

https://www.threads.net/@msraitchetp

/post/C-LJz0NOSlP?xmt=AQGzpMH3VkEUDeyNzRZcB8SNwmDs8IOmKrMQfA69H3yuhQ

Big One: 

The outcome of 2024 is still a serious question, but let’s play out current trends  - assuming Trump loses, the ground work is being laid always for his challenge to the outcome and we will see autocratic leaders across the WORLD move to prop him up

• What if he declares victory? 
• Perhaps MAGA has peaked, but losing power comes with struggle to keep it: https://www.thebulwark.com/p/new-right-vance-twitter-already-peaked
• So much so, this Arizona GOP former election official is telling people to vote DEM: https://www.npr.org/2024/07/31/nx-s1-5058464/stephen-richer-maricopa-county-elections-arizona-primary

Possible money paid to Trump from reception leaders - a prime example of the networks 

https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/2024/08/02/trump-campaign-egypt-investigation/

2024 Election Era: 

Trump goes to a live panel with National Association of Black Journalists and, well, you all know what happened: 
https://www.mediaite.com/tv/she-became-a-black-person-trump-spars-with-moderator-over-whether-or-not-republicans-should-call-harris-a-dei-hire/

• The Gaffe that turned into a complete meltdown
• “When you’re in a hole…” 
• https://www.threads.net/@derekberes/post/C-GVEQfpL_7?xmt=AQGzuFx4Hh3QcoO85HFlMJDxPJU7yWLwSGU4G0YQKmOUIw
• “Republicans Reel: https://www.axios.com/2024/07/31/house-senate-republicans-trump-nabj-interview
• IT BROKE THROUGH  - SEAN: https://www.npr.org/2024/07/31/nx-s1-5059091/donald-trump-nabj-interview
• But, as Sean said: So... I guess Don was tired of JD getting all the headlines?

FOX IS FLAILING: https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-news/jesse-watters-vote-for-women-trans-fox-news-1235071300/

Trump, who has claimed no connection, gets Project 2025 chair fired: https://www.threads.net/@ronaldfilipkowski/post/C-D88aCywNj?xmt=AQGzzn5_PqcB4Ha_argxR7FKdJClEdcQOxsFxDrXmiw7hQ

https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/30/politics/project-2025-paul-dans/index.html

Trump on attack in Georgia… against a Republican. 

https://x.com/ewerickson/status/1819861779410833530?s=46&t=mukZUfs5M_R3E9tAHIu-GA

HARRIS

PLOUFFE JOINS HARRIS TEAM  https://www.politico.com/news/2024/08/02/plouffe-joins-harris-campaign-as-senior-adviser-00172478

The (Fille In The Blank) for Harris Movement

Kamala Harris VC’s group: https://www.vcsforkamala.org/

• White dudes with THE dude
• Rural voters for Harris
• ON AND ON it goes
• MEGAN THEE STALLION : https://www.threads.net/@kamalahq/post/C-EbAectOPG?xmt=AQGzqykFF8btweDu3IDCHMOqqBwlm6A7KKQYLFHshHeQLw

Fed Rate cuts will matter: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/31/fed-interest-rate-cuts-trump-republican-backlash-00171918

What kind of electoral map could we really see: https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/30/politics/kamala-harris-atlanta-rally

Polling: my biggest take away - look at the “Other” column

https://www.270towin.com/2024-presidential-election-polls/national

Host: Adam Sommer 

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Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Quick Hit: Citizens United reminds us all of the definition of iron: https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/citizens-united-gop-state-parties-file-fec-complaint-over-biden-harris-campaign-funds/

Quick Hit: Missouri Gov debates happened - Kehoe was a no show, Quade ate Hamra’s lunch — also Quade gets endorsements from Mayor Quinton Lucas of KC and Mayor Tishaura Jones of STL; meanwhile Kehoe gets the Trump nod (Trump endorsed all Gov GOP candidates; see MO Independent link)

https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/donald-trump-endorses-all-three-major-republican-candidates-for-missouri-governor/

True or False: The best thing to do right now is ignore the prognosticators

• Fox story: Detroit News WDIV-TV survey be”https://www.foxnews.com/politics/new-poll-shows-trump-harris-neck-key-2024-state-close
• Fivethirty eight: https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/polls/president-general/2024/national/
• Takeaway: Is it just that it’s going to be close and go from there? 
• Politico article - 1,000 words to say the race is close and hard to predict: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/27/polling-kamala-harris-trump-00171514
  
   
• Harris raising funds: https://apnews.com/article/kamala-harris-fundraiser-presidential-campaign-9f4713f2b07cde2f7b7cbb7bdcfa9240
• 
   

Yeah…No: JD Vance’s extreme abortion comments (found on Drudge)

https://www.newsweek.com/jd-vance-abortion-audio-travel-banned-1930761

Chris Murphy, X: https://x.com/ChrisMurphyCT/status/1816673432697762037

https://www.themirror.com/news/us-news/jd-vance-audio-leak-abortion-614642

• Chatter about replacing JD already surfacing: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/how-trump-could-replace-jd-vance-if-the-ohioans-terrible-polling-continues/ar-BB1qDn03
• House GOP members not thrilled: https://thehill.com/homenews/4793818-vance-vp-trump-house-republicans
• Even more: JD Vance is weird as hell

Big One: Biden’s Oval address and its place in history

https://theheartlandcollective.com/2024/07/25/bidens-historic-patriotic-farewell-address/

AP Coverage: https://apnews.com/article/biden-oval-office-speech-2024-d7a5e913e4e9c347ed314e5879db3480

2024 Election Era

Trump tells Christian group they won’t have to vote any more and that he’s not a Christian 

Trump tells Christian voters they 'won't have to vote anymore' if he's elected 

https://www.npr.org/2024/07/27/nx-s1-5054272/trump-christian-wont-vote-anymore-speech

270 to Win polling; https://www.270towin.com/2024-presidential-election-polls/national

Harris is in: https://dnyuz.com/2024/07/25/harris-narrows-gap-against-trump-times-siena-poll-finds/

Obama endorses Harris: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/22/kamala-harris-endorsements-democrats

VP Discussion heats up, who are early leaders? 

Cook political breakdown: https://www.cookpolitical.com/analysis/national/national-politics/breaking-down-veepstakes-what-top-prospects-could-bring-harris?check_logged_in=1

Their order: Shapiro, Kelly, Cooper, Brashear

BBC: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c80ekdwk9zro

Harris drawing distinctions on Mid east: https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/25/politics/kamala-harris-israel-policy/index.html

Fox news top line on Friday - Trump’s bond provider didn’t charge enough

https://www.foxnews.com/politics/billionaire-helped-trump-175m-bond-probably-didnt-charge-enough

GOP going in on immigration: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/harris-failed-combat-root-causes-illegal-immigration-former-border-patrol-union-chief

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Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

https://www.callahanforabettertomorrow.com/

Host: Adam Sommer 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Learn more about Devon: http://www.devonheinen.com/articles.html

Article: http://www.devonheinen.com/images/2024-Heinen-AL-Reflector-Diane-Derzis-Story.pdf

Host: Adam Sommer 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

https://www.kansascity.com/opinion/editorials/article289981759.html

Global tech outage: https://www.cnn.com/business/live-news/global-outage-intl-hnk/index.html

True or False: JD Vance was a mistake 

JD didn’t like Trump: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/16/jd-vance-political-views-trump

Vox’s “Yikes” piece: https://www.vox.com/politics/360283/jd-vance-trump-vp-vice-president-authoritarian

I’m a never Trump guy, says Trump’s VP pick: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/15/jd-vance-donald-trump-comments-00168450

JD Vance, of the shire? https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/07/19/lord-of-the-rings-jd-vance-00169372

Opinion piece: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/21/opinion/jd-vance-kamala-harris.html

Yeah, Yeah: Mo Dems raising big $ (see PDF in slack)

• Missouri Scout a subscription Missouri specific service, summary shows that Dem state senate candidates are FAR ahead on money in key races

Big One: Tech goes MAGA? 

https://www.axios.com/2024/07/17/trump-andreessen-horowitz-tech-billionaires

2024 Election Era

Polling: https://www.270towin.com/2024-presidential-election-polls/national#google_vignette

The Map: https://www.270towin.com/

1. Buy Or Sell: Biden being replaced is a viable option
   1. Obama: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/ar-BB1qdSr4
   2. 
       
   3. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/dnc-virtual-roll-call-lloyd-doggett_n_6697c7bfe4b053ef7d6c1ece
   4. Schiff: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/17/biden-step-aside-schiff-pelosi-election-00169025
   5. July 18th - the world seems to explode
      1. AOC live video “I don’t know what’s going to happen’
   6. Bernie says if the election is about the issues, Biden wins… love you Bernie but that’s now how this works and you know that: https://www.cnn.com/politics/live-news/biden-trump-rnc-07-19-24/index.html
   7. https://www.foxnews.com/media/former-clinton-aide-paul-begala-warns-walls-closing-in-biden-campaign
   8. 
       
2. RNC happened, any takeaways? 
   1. Morning after Trump I went to Fox News and saw one very small headline about Trump’s speech, and not much else.
   2. LOOONG rambling speech: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/19/trump-rnc-speech-2024-00169711
      1. “Trump’s crowning moment — set up to be a triumphant return to center stage just five days after a bullet pierced his ear at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania — turned into a meandering speech that resembled his usual rallies with macabre descriptions of a nation in decline.”
   3. Pics of people literally closing their eyes appearing to be asleep: https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2024/07/18/rnc-live-updates-coverage/closing-out-with-trump-00169696
   4. 
       
   5. https://www.axios.com/2024/07/17/nikki-haley-republican-national-convention-trump
   6. Idiocracy moment with Hulk Hogan
   7. Trump’s speech widely panned, he sounded drunk, and he looks awful
   8. https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/07/19/rnc-trump-speech-analysis-00169529
   9. GOP continues to push 2020 election conspiracy: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/19/election-denialism-republican-convention
   10. 
        
   11. The ear bandages… yikes. 

Host: Adam Sommer 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

@voteamandataylor on FB and Tik Tok

A former researcher

A content creator with her own website who has found a groove with entertainment interviews

And an active member of her local community where she is running for the Missouri state house of representatives in the 103rd district 

Host: Adam Sommer 

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Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Reminder: Chevron case is, in all reality, a bigger deal: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/06/chevron-doctrine-supreme-court-ruling

1. Missouri GOP Held A Fake Convention…
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/07/02/missouri-presidential-delegates-rejected-by-republican-national-convention-committee/
2. The Missouri Republican Party must replace 54 national convention delegates and alternates selected at its chaotic state convention because of “alarming irregularities” in the process, the Republican National Convention Committee on Contests ruled Friday. The list of rejected delegates includes two of the major GOP candidates for governor, Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft and state Sen. Bill Eigel. “The committee holds that the State Convention was not properly credentialed, and that any slate of delegates and alternate delegates adopted at the State Convention must be discarded,” states the report signed by Chairwoman Jeanne Luckey of Mississippi.
3. https://www.newsweek.com/missouri-republicans-delegate-selection-trump-1921842
4. 
    
5. Pulled from our May 8th episode: Missouri GOP convention was just as unproductive, couldn’t even adopt a new platform: https://www.lakeexpo.com/news/politics/high-drama-at-missouri-republican-convention-as-grassroots-boots-leadership/article_4a70706a-0be6-11ef-8713-470db31ecca4.html
6. You don’t F***ing say
   1. GOP house members talking corporate tax… hikes
   2. https://www.semafor.com/article/07/02/2024/house-republican-support-grows-for-corporate-tax-increase-threatening-key-part-of-trumps-economic-legacy
   3. Up to 10 Republican House lawmakers are open to increasing the corporate tax rate, a senior GOP member estimated, possibly threatening Donald Trump’s future plans if he is reelected. Trump’s 2017 tax cuts lowered the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, a move hailed by businesses. While that levy is permanent, a host of other lower rates are set to expire at the end of 2025 and some Republicans are balking at the $4.5 trillion price tag of extending them, setting up a major policy fight for the next president.
7. Yeah… Yeah… (I think)
   1. Arizona GOP member speaks up, loudly, about BS Election claims
      1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jul/05/arizona-election-denialism-jan-brewer
      2. 
          
8. 2024 Election Era
   1. It’s been a week since the debate. Biden did an interview on ABC with George Stephanopolis, Trump’s camp, meanwhile, has apparently discovered that a major push to educate people on Project 2025 from The Heritage Foundation is NOT good for him as he pretends to know nothing about it and disagree with it. 
   2. Calls for Biden to step aside have quieted some, and the Immunity case - as predicted, shifts the media narrative by quite a lot
   3. Strory in politico that alleges some American allies are concerned Biden cannot win https://www.politico.com/news/2024/07/06/american-allies-fear-biden-trump-00166700
   4. Jake Tapper posted and removed a FAKE story about Democratic Governors meeting via zoom to call on Biden to step aside

ONE WEEK AFTER DEBATE: 

BUY OR SELL: Barring major health issue this is the bottom for Biden?

POLLING - slight change toward Trump after debate, no major crater 

https://projects.fivethirtyeight.com/polls/president-general/2024/national/

1. Biden talks Project 2025: https://apnews.com/article/trump-project-2025-biden-9d372469033d23e1e3aef5cf0470a2e6
2. Trump claims to not actually agree with P2025 
   1. https://www.foxnews.com/politics/trump-slams-heritage-foundation-transition-plan-claims-parts-ridiculous-abysmal
   2. https://www.thedailybeast.com/donald-trump-claims-republicans-project-2025-has-nothing-to-do-with-him-abysmal
   3. Rejects possible allies with tossing PJ 2025 aside? https://www.semafor.com/article/07/05/2024/trump-disavows-project-2025
3. Swalwell and Philly Inquirer say TRump should step aside
   1. https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4757848-eric-swalwell-joe-biden-donald-trump-2024-election-post-debate/
4. Immunity case fallout - the delay is on
5. Judge pauses deadlines in Trump docs case
   1. https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/06/politics/trump-classified-documents-scotus-ruling/index.html

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

1. From Eugene Daniels at Politoco: Dems freak out over Biden’s debate performance
   1. https://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/27/biden-debate-opening-concerns-00165595

One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”

President Joe Biden stands on stage during a commercial break in a presidential debate at CNN Studios in Atlanta, Georgia, on June 27, 2024. | Francis Chung/POLITICO

By EUGENE DANIELS

06/27/2024 10:15 PM EDT

Updated: 06/27/2024 10:27 PM EDT

President Joe Biden opened the debate with a raspy voice and disjointed, rambling answers, reigniting Democratic concerns about his age and ability to take on former President Donald Trump.

Many of the president’s answers were hard to follow. At one point, seemingly losing his train of thought, Biden said “we finally beat Medicare,” misspeaking about his own policy on earned benefits.

In text messages with POLITICO, Democrats expressed confusion and concern as they watched the first minutes of the event. One former Biden White House and campaign aide called it “terrible,” adding that they have had to ask themselves over and over “What did he just say? This is crazy.”

Another veteran Democratic operative texted, “Biden seems to have needed a few minutes to warm up. I wonder if the lack of an audience was the right decision. And poor guy needs a tea. Maybe a whiskey.”

An attorney and Democratic activist from New Hampshire said, “Biden is toast — calling it now.”

Biden’s rambling answers provided Trump multiple opportunities to jump in with retorts. At one point, after an answer ostensibly on immigration, Trump said, “I don’t know what he said at the end there. I don’t think he knows what he said.”

The president’s performance was widely panned online and will likely reinforce the impression that he’s lost a step. The 81-year-old president’s age has long been a liability, with poll after poll showing even many Democrats concerned about his age.

Biden aides and allies had hoped the on-stage split screen between the two men would help to focus voters’ attention on the race. But during the debate, many Democrats have begun to doubt that strategy would actually work out in Biden’s favor.

A person familiar with Biden’s health claimed that his performance is due to a cold. But the president’s team hadn’t mentioned that to reporters until Biden began to answer questions in the debate.

One prominent operative texted, “Time for an open convention.”

1. Better call the waaaambulance! Supreme Court rejects Missouri AG’s petition trying to connect the government, to social media, to his own challenges and inadequacies.
2. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/26/scotus-rejects-suit-alleging-federal-government-bullied-social-media-into-censoring-content/

SCOTUS rejects Missouri lawsuit alleging feds bullied social media into censoring content

The lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who were either banned or throttled by social media companies

BY: JASON HANCOCK - JUNE 26, 2024 9:15 AM

The U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday rejected arguments by Missouri and Louisiana that the federal government violated the First Amendment in its efforts to combat false, misleading and dangerous information online.

In a 6-3 decision written by Justice Amy Coney Barrett, the court held that neither the states nor seven individuals who were co-plaintiffs in the case were able to demonstrate any harm or substantial risk that they will suffer an injury in the future.

Therefore, they do not have legal standing to bring a case against the federal government.

Plaintiffs failed to prove that social media platforms acted due to government coercion, Barrett wrote, rather than their own judgment and policies. In fact, she wrote, social media platforms “began to suppress the plaintiffs’ COVID–19 content before the defendants’ challenged communications started.”

Plaintiffs cannot “manufacture standing,” Barrett wrote, “merely by inflicting harm on themselves based on their fears of hypothetical future harm that is not certainly impending.”

The ruling overturns a lower court decision that concluded officials under Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump unlawfully coerced social media companies to remove deceptive or inaccurate content out of fears it would fuel vaccine hesitancy or upend elections.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey called the federal government’s actions “the biggest violation of the First Amendment in our nation’s history.”

But those arguments were greeted with skepticism by the court in March, with justices from across the ideological spectrum punching holes in the lawsuit and raising concerns about the consequences for public safety and national security.

In an emailed statement, Bailey made no mention of the court’s decision to dismiss the case, instead declaring that his office will continue to pursue evidence of social media censorship by the federal government.

“Missouri is not done,” Bailey said. “We are going back to the district court to obtain more discovery in order to root out Joe Biden’s vast censorship enterprise once and for all.”

The lawsuit was filed in 2022 by Missouri and Louisiana, along with seven people who either were banned from a platform or whose posts were not prominently featured on social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube and X, then known as Twitter.

Among the co-plaintiffs is Jim Hoft, founder of the St. Louis-based right-wing conspiracy website Gateway Pundit. Hoft has built a career on promulgating false conspiracies on a wide range of topics, from the 2018 Parkland school shooting to former President Barack Obama’s birth certificate.

His company recently filed for bankruptcy as it faces defamation lawsuits in Missouri and Colorado filed by people who say they faced threats after being vilified by Gateway Pundit in false stories.

Hoft claims claims that Twitter, in December 2020, censored content about the Hunter Biden laptop story at the urging of the federal government. But Barrett wrote that Twitter acted according to its own rules against posting or sharing “privately produced/distributed intimate media of someone without their express consent.”

There is no evidence, Barrett wrote, that Twitter adopted its policy in response to pressure from the federal government.

3. Kansas unemployment has been under 3% for almost 3 years running

1. https://kansasreflector.com/briefs/kansas-unemployment-rate-climbs-for-second-consecutive-month-to-2-9-in-may/

Kansas unemployment rate 2.9%

BY: TIM CARPENTER - JUNE 24, 2024 3:30 PM

TOPEKA — The unemployment rate in Kansas was 2.9% in May, for an unprecedented 30 consecutive months with unemployment under 3%. The state’s unemployment rate has remained under 3% since October 2021, after reaching double-digits in the twilight of Trump’s presidency in 2020.

In the past 12 months, Kansas’ total nonfarm employment climbed by 24,000 jobs. The Department of Labor says that was due to a surge of 18,700 private sector positions and the addition of 5,300 government jobs.

The average nominal hourly earnings in Kansas for private sector workers has increased 3.4% over the past 12 months to $30.09.

4.  Go along to get along type wins Colorado blue seat primary

1. https://coloradonewsline.com/2024/06/25/camacho-leads-epps-in-closely-watched-colorado-statehouse-race/

Camacho beats Epps in closely watched Colorado statehouse race

BY: SARA WILSON - JUNE 25, 2024 10:07 PM   

Challenger Sean Camacho defeated Rep. Elisabeth Epps in the Democratic primary for state House District 6, according to early results from the Colorado secretary of state.

Camacho was ahead with 63% of the vote, according to the results as of 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, and Associated Press-subscribed outlets reported that the AP called the race for Camacho.

Camacho was the establishment-backed candidate. Epps was the more progressive, yet controversial, first-term lawmaker. The race was seen as a bellwether among many state Capitol observers.

Epps, who heads the Colorado Freedom Fund, won her first term in office in 2022 after another tough primary challenge from Katie March. During her two years in office, she championed progressive legislation including a ban on most semi-automatic firearms and a bill to allow overdose authorization centers. She also publicly criticized House leadership over their handling of floor speech and open meetings practices. She was reprimanded by House leadership after she joined pro-Palestinian protestors in the chamber gallery during a special session last fall.

Epps was backed by labor and grassroots groups including the AFL-CIO and SEIU Local 105.

Camacho had endorsements from the Democratic establishment of Colorado, including Gov. Jared Polis, Attorney General Phil Weiser, House Speaker Julie McCluskie and Senate President Steve Fenberg.

Camacho vastly outraised and outspent Epps, according to campaign finance records. He also benefited from outside spending. Various committees spent over $120,000 for communications opposing Epps and over $250,000 supporting him. That included a series of negative mailers targeting Epps.

5. IL Gov JB Pritzker signs bill creating new Depaartment of Early Childhood

1. https://capitolnewsillinois.com/news/pritzker-signs-bill-creating-new-department-of-early-childhood

Pritzker signs bill creating new Department of Early Childhood

Gov. JB Pritzker holds up Senate Bill 1 after signing it into law, flanked by Reps. Mary Beth Canty, D-Arlington Heights, and Will Davis, D-Homewood (left) and lead Senate sponsor Sen. Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood (right). Pritzker said the agency is expected to be up and running in 2026. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)

Tuesday, June 25, 2024

New agency to bring multiple programs under one roof

By PETER HANCOCK
Capitol News Illinois
phancock@capitolnewsillinois.com

SPRINGFIELD – Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation Tuesday creating a new cabinet-level state agency dedicated to early childhood education and development.

The new Department of Early Childhood, which will become operational in July 2026, will take over programs currently housed across three state agencies, including funding for preschool programs, child care centers and the licensing of day care centers.

Speaking at a bill signing ceremony at a preschool in Chicago, Pritzker said the streamlined agency  should make it easier for new parents to access critical services for their children.

“It's hard enough juggling all the responsibilities that fall on the shoulders of parents,” he said. “And on top of that, they shouldn't have to navigate a complex bureaucracy to get the care that they and their children deserve.”

A chalkboard welcome sign for Gov. JB Pritzker inside Eyes On The Future Child Development Center in Chicago’s far north side neighborhood of Rogers Park. Pritzker signed Senate Bill 1 there, which will create the framework for a new state agency geared towards early childhood development. (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)

Pritzker first unveiled his plan for a consolidated agency last fall, just as lawmakers were beginning their annual fall veto session, when he issued an executive order establishing an Office of Early Childhood within the governor’s office. 

Read more: Pritzker proposes creation of new standalone early childhood agency

That order directed the Department of Human Services, the Department of Children and Family Services, and the Illinois State Board of Education to begin working on a transition plan to move the administration of their early childhood programs into a new agency.

The formal bid to establish the new agency was part of Pritzker’s budget proposal to the General Assembly in February, along with a second year of increased funding for those programs under Pritzker’s Smart Start initiative.

Under the plan, the new agency will take over the Early Childhood Block Grant program from the State Board of Education, which funds the Preschool for All and Prevention Initiative programs; the Child Care Assistance Program, Home Visiting programs, and Early Intervention Services currently housed in the Department of Human Services; and licensing of day care facilities, which is currently managed by the Department of Children and Family Services.

The legislation authorizing the new agency, Senate Bill 1, passed unanimously in the Senate in April, and last month passed with bipartisan support in the House, 93-18.

“The foundation of a child’s success and well-being is built starting the moment they are born,” Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford, D-Maywood, the lead Senate sponsor of the bill, said in a statement. “As a state, it is our duty to provide the necessary support and resources to build such stability. The creation of this unique agency will break ground on our transition to a whole, trauma-informed approach to meeting children’s diverse needs.”

Gov. JB Pritzker poses for photos with early childhood advocates following a signing event for Senate Bill 1, which creates the Department of Early Childhood. Pritzker said the agency will immediately “make life simpler, better, and fairer for tens of thousands of Illinois families.” (Capitol News Illinois photo by Dilpreet Raju)

Much of the debate over the bill in the legislature focused on the cost of launching a new state agency. Lawmakers appropriated $14 million in the upcoming fiscal year for initial startup costs, which include such things as hiring executive staff and opening new office space.

But administration officials were reluctant to provide estimates of how much the new agency would cost annually once it’s fully operational, and whether those administrative costs would outweigh what the state is spending currently.

Responding to questions from reporters Tuesday, Pritzker again declined to offer specific cost estimates but suggested consolidating the programs into a single agency could result in efficiencies and cost savings. But he did chide “people who want to complain” about how new state agencies will “cost...taxpayers.”  

“I really don't think it will,” Pritzker said. “I think there's real efficiency and taking programs that are desperately located in different departments and bringing them all together.”

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

• SCOTUS issues major gun case ruling
• https://www.npr.org/2024/05/23/1252764853/supreme-court-guns
• Major Missouri Race Poll: https://emersoncollegepolling.com/missouri-2024-poll-ashcroft-23-kehoe-20-lead-republican-primary-for-governor-46-undecided/
• True or False: Missourians might hit a soft reset in 2024
  • Major Missouri Race Poll: https://emersoncollegepolling.com/missouri-2024-poll-ashcroft-23-kehoe-20-lead-republican-primary-for-governor-46-undecided/
  • “Kehoe’s strength is older voters: 26% of voters over 60 support Kehoe while 18% support Ashcroft. Ashcroft performs best with voters in their 30s, 40s, and 50s: 31% of whom support Ashcroft while 15% support Kehoe,” Spencer Kimball, executive director of Emerson College Polling, said. 
  • In the November presidential election, 53% of Missouri voters support former president Donald Trump, 40% support President Joe Biden, and 7% are undecided. With third-party candidates on the ballot, Trump’s support decreases to 50%, and Biden’s to 35%, while 7% support Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and 1% support Cornel West and Jill Stein respectively. 
• Yeah.. NO: Missouri Democratic primary draws major questions 
  • https://www.huffpost.com/entry/wesley-bell-republican-campaign-manag_n_66747f65e4b069d92e24ad5e
  • As of May, Bell has raised more than $65,000 in contributions from donors who normally give to Republicans. They include a former GOP speaker of the Missouri House, the billionaire hedge fund founder Daniel Loeb, and the former finance chair for Sen. Tim Scott’s (R-S.C.) presidential super PAC.
  • “I am pro-life and I will support a constitutional amendment to protect the rights of the unborn,” Byrne told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. “I will protect our Second Amendment right to bear arms. … I will increase funding for the border patrol and crack down on employers who knowingly hire illegal immigrants.”
  • “It is a little strange to me that this is where you’d be putting your efforts in 2006, when there were a good number of Democrats running for office that needed help and support,” she said. “Friendship is one thing. But empowering friends who have problematic viewpoints to get into positions of power, that’s concerning.”
• Yeah… YEAH: Montana progressive with interesting family ties running for office
  • https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jun/19/dakota-adams-oath-keeper-son-montana-elections
  • He ain't no senator’s son, that’s for sure
• 2024 Election Era Rolls On
  • Trump camp might have asked for help from Missouri senator… or not?
    • https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article289363355.html
  • Turning Point USA is going to handle the ground game? aiming to ultimately spend $108 million on a get-out-the-vote effort in key battleground states, according to two sources familiar with the plans. The “Chase the Vote” program has built out infrastructures in Arizona, Wisconsin and Michigan, all states that Trump won in 2016 but lost to President Joe Biden in 2020. While Trump speaks to the crowd this weekend, the group is planning to sign up more local volunteers as well as pass out job applications to beef up their program, particularly in the Wolverine State.
  • Democratic operatives have mocked Trump’s campaign for their limited hired staff on the ground, as Biden’s team has continued to build out its own massive ground game operation.
  • “You need boots on the ground to win an election,” said one veteran Democratic strategist, who spoke on condition of anonymity to speak candidly. “(The Biden campaign) is far outpacing Trump’s operation on this front.”
  • https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/15/politics/trump-campaign-turning-point-charlie-kirk
  • Big Money: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jun/21/billionaire-tim-mellon-trump-donation
  • Buy or Sell: Farmers for… Biden? https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jun/21/trump-biden-agriculture-policies
  • Then, not long after, Trump began trade tariffs against many of the US’s international allies.
  • “Our allies retaliated by going after our soft underbelly: our agriculture,” Gibbs says. “When China retaliated by no longer taking our soybeans, I lost 20% of the value of my crop overnight.”
  • Gibbs is among a small but perhaps growing group of US farmers who fear that Trump’s threats of renewed trade wars and immigrant deportations could ruin their businesses should he prevail in the November presidential election
     
• Polling From Fox “not toooo good” but again, just one poll
  • We talked last week about IF the economic indicators would have time to catch voters attentions going into the fall
    • https://www.foxnews.com/official-polls/fox-news-poll-three-point-shift-biden-trump-matchup-since-may
    • Biden got improved marks on: Economy and Immigration
    • There was also a 4-point shift in the expanded ballot. When other potential candidates are included, Biden tops Trump by 1 point (43%-42%), Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. receives 10% and Cornel West and Jill Stein get 2% each. Last month, Trump was ahead of Biden by 3 points (43%-40%).  
  • https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-devastating-poll-fox-news-joe-biden-election-economy-1915063
  • In a previous Fox News poll from May, Trump was leading Biden by one point (49 percent to 48 percent). The former president was also enjoying a five-point lead over Biden in March (50 percent to 45 percent), meaning there has been a significant swing in favor of the Democrat incumbent in the past three months
  • From the Fox Summary: Three-quarters of voters say it matters "a great deal" to them who wins the presidential election, and they favor Biden over Trump by 5 points. More women than men (by 7 points) feel like the outcome matters a great deal, as do more voters ages 65+ than young voters (+24) — that could be a big help to Biden if it holds.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

1. Kansas Legislature passes incentive bill to lure Kanas City Chiefs and Royals
2. Rather than preside over clown show convention, IL GOP chair resigns
3. Illinois families cheer $300 state Child Tax Credit
4. Dems confident, Republicans morose in ongoing IVF battle
5. This week in ‘unforced errors’ Trump calls Milwaukee a ‘horrible city’ causing his pollster to be… also morose. 

We’re glad to have you with us. If you’re new to our shows make sure you subscribe and leave a 5-star rating wherever you listen. You can also find Heartland POD content on Youtube and on social media @ THE heartland pod, and learn more at https://theheartlandcollective.com

Lots to do, so let’s go! 

Kansas Legislature passes incentive bill to lure Kansas City Chiefs, Royals

BY: ALLISON KITE - JUNE 18, 2024 3:26 PM

 Brady Singer of the Kansas City Royals throws in the first inning against the Houston Astros at Kauffman Stadium in April. (Ed Zurga/Getty Images).

TOPEKA — The Kansas City Royals and Chiefs could receive hundreds of millions of dollars in sales tax revenue to move from Missouri and build new stadiums across the state line under legislation passed Tuesday by Kansas lawmakers.

The House voted 84-38 and the Senate voted 27-8 to approve legislation that would expand a state incentive program in an attempt to lure one or both teams from Kansas City. 

The bill now heads to Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, who said in a statement following the Senate vote that the effort to bring the teams to Kansas “shows we’re all-in on keeping our beloved teams in the Kansas City metro.”

“Kansas now has the opportunity to become a professional sports powerhouse with the Chiefs and Royals potentially joining Sporting KC as major league attractions, all with robust, revenue-generating entertainment districts surrounding them providing new jobs, new visitors and new revenues that boost the Kansas economy,” Kelly said.

Neither team has promised to move to Kansas, though both actively lobbied for the legislation’s passage. The Chiefs said in a statement that the team appreciated Kansas leaders reaching out for input on the legislation.

“We look forward to exploring the options this legislation may provide,” the statement said. 

The Royals said the team was grateful to the legislature for its vote. 

“The Kansas City Royals look forward to additional conversations as we evaluate where we will play baseball in the future,” the team said. “We will always prioritize the best interests of our fans, associates and taxpayers in this process.”

State Rep. Sean Tarwater, a Republican from Stilwell, said during debate in the House that Missouri had a history of losing professional sports teams and implored fellow House members to pass the legislation.

“I ask you today, do you really want to put that type of an economic generation in the hands of the state of Missouri?” Tarwater said just before the vote.

Rep. Sean Tarwater speaks on the floor of the Kansas House of Representatives in favor of expanding economic incentives in an attempt to bring the Kansas City Chiefs or Royals to Kansas. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)

Passage of the bill represents a monumental step in Kansas lawmakers’ attempts to court the teams. Both teams have signaled a willingness to move from their current stadiums at the Truman Sports Complex in Kansas City, Missouri.

While neither team has announced a proposed site for a Kansas stadium, legislators speculated it could land in Wyandotte County near the Sporting KC soccer stadium, NASCAR track and outlet shops.

“We have the history of building amazing projects that have brought in retail commerce, restaurants, hotels and have improved an area that was largely just a field and turned it into a tax-generating machine for our state,” said Sen. J.R. Claeys, a Salina Republican.

The legislation, he said, would put Kansas in a “very good position to keep the Kansas City Chiefs and the Kansas City Royals in the Kansas City metro area.”

The bill, which was not voted on by any legislative committee, would expand the state’s Sales Tax and Revenue (STAR) Bond program, which is meant to help finance tourism and entertainment districts to help pay for a professional football or baseball stadium of at least $1 billion.

A developer building a stadium under the program would be eligible to finance up to 70% of the project cost by issuing bonds and repaying them with the increased sales tax collections from the stadium site. The expansion would have initially allowed up to 75% of project costs but was tweaked before introduction. Debt on a stadium constructed under the expansion wouldn’t have to be repaid for 30 years instead of the normal 20.

The project could also receive a boost from liquor taxes generated in the STAR Bond district and revenues from a fund Kansas created when it legalized sports betting.

During House debate, Rep. Paul Waggoner, a Hutchinson Republican, argued subsidized stadiums never generate the economic activity that they promise. He was alarmed by what he called “minimal transparency” in the deal-making process laid out in the legislation.

The bill says any agreement between the state and a team would be confidential until after it has been executed.

Waggoner called the legislation “bad public policy.”

“This is not your mother’s STAR Bonds,” Waggoner said. “This is a jacked up super-sized version of STAR Bonds.”

Patrick Mahomes throws pass against the Buffalo Bills during the third quarter in the AFC Divisional Playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 23, 2022. Kansas lawmakers could offer the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals millions of dollars in tax incentives to move from Missouri to Kansas. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images).

The bill limits the eligibility to National Football League or Major League Baseball teams currently near Kansas. The financing mechanism could be used for both stadiums and training facilities.

Both teams have pressed lawmakers in recent weeks to pass the bill with representatives from the Royals hosting dinner for Democratic lawmakers at a steakhouse Monday night and the Chiefs throwing a lunchtime block party Tuesday steps from the Capitol.

Earlier this month, a nonprofit called Scoop and Score Inc. launched to advocate for a Kansas stadium deal. The organization, which does not have to disclose its donors, hired 30 lobbyists to advocate for the STAR Bond expansion legislation. 

In a statement, former Kansas House Speaker Ron Ryckman Jr., a lobbyist for Scoop and Score and the Chiefs, said the Legislature “stepped up in a big way, paving the path to make sure the Chiefs stay right where they belong — in Kansas City with their loyal fans.”

“The votes show overwhelming bipartisan support because Kansas lawmakers know what the Chiefs mean to us and how big of an economic opportunity this is for Kansas,” Ryckman said.

Just weeks before Republican National Convention, Illinois GOP chair announces resignation

After 3 ½ years as ILGOP chair, Don Tracy cites intraparty fighting as reason for quitting

By HANNAH MEISEL
Capitol News Illinois
hmeisel@capitolnewsillinois.com

Halfway through the 2024 election cycle and just a few weeks away from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Illinois GOP Chair Don Tracy on Wednesday announced his resignation as head of the state Republican Party.

Tracy, who’d held the job since February 2021, explained his resignation in a two-page letter that cited intraparty “power struggles.” He also said he is concerned about the direction the party is taking under the current membership of the Illinois Republican State Central Committee – a 17-person body that steers the ILGOP, with one member elected from each congressional district.

“In better days, Illinois Republicans came together after tough intra party elections,” Tracy wrote. “Now however, we have Republicans who would rather fight other Republicans than engage in the harder work of defeating incumbent Democrats by convincing swing voters to vote Republican.”

Tracy was narrowly elected Illinois Republican Party chair in the wake of the 2020 election and Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection on the U.S. Capitol by those who sought to stop certification of the election for its winner, President Joe Biden, over former President Donald Trump. Even as Republicans publicly reckoned with the events of Jan. 6, hardline conservatives on the state central committee were pushing for a more ardent supporter of Trump and his politics than the previous chair, who was hand-picked by former Gov. Bruce Rauner.

Instead, the party got Tracy, another Rauner ally who served as chair of the Illinois Gaming Board during the one-term governor’s administration. Tracy had unsuccessfully run for lieutenant governor in 2010, and in 2002, he lost a bid for a state Senate seat – but as a Democrat.

Tracy’s electoral history, as well as his experience as an attorney and co-owner of his family’s food distribution business, fit the mold of previous ILGOP chairs in a state where fiscally conservative and socially moderate suburban Republicans for decades were a political powerhouse.

But as Republican politics have changed both nationally and in Illinois, Tracy’s run as party chair proved tumultuous.

Additionally, Tracy wrote that he was “concerned about the current infatuation” of some state central committee members “with certain individuals they call ‘grass roots’ leaders.”

One such self-proclaimed grassroots Republican, former state Sen. Darren Bailey, celebrated Tracy’s resignation on social media Wednesday, calling it a “cleansing” of the state GOP.

“Fake republicans got us into this mess,” wrote Bailey, who earlier this year lost a primary challenge to U.S. Rep. Mike Bost and unsuccessfully ran for governor in 2022. “Real Republicans standing firm will get us out!!!”

Read more: Dems seek unity as new, former chair take no questions from media after party vote

Democrats panned the state GOP as “defined by a litany of electoral disasters, constant infighting, meager fundraising, and a strict adherence to a losing set of anti-choice, anti-worker, pro-Trump policies.”

“While we don’t expect new leadership to change any of that, we do wish the best of luck to the inevitable MAGA extremist who will succeed Don Tracy as Chair,” the party said.

Tracy’s letter indicated he would resign upon the election of a successor, “preferably no later than” July 19 – the day after the RNC is scheduled to conclude.

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of newspapers, radio and TV stations statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

Illinois child tax credit: who gets it, how much is it?

(Capitol News Illinois illustration by Andrew Adams)

Thursday, June 13, 2024

$50M tax credit program will provide up to roughly $300 for low-income families

By ANDREW ADAMS
Capitol News Illinois
aadams@capitolnewsillinois.com

In the final hours of their spring legislative session, Illinois lawmakers approved a tax credit of up to about $300 for families with young children. 

The credit is available to Illinoisans with children under age 12 who qualify for the federal Earned Income Tax Credit, or EITC. Although it has exceptions, that credit is generally available to married couples earning up to about $60,000 and single people earning up to about $50,000, depending on the number of children they have. 

For taxes on 2024 income, the tax credit will cap at just over $300 for tax filers with three or more children who meet certain income requirements. Taxpayers with two children face a cap of about $270 and taxpayers with one child face a cap of about $170. 

The child tax credit equates to 20 percent of the state’s EITC, which allows Illinois taxpayers a credit equal to 20 percent of the federal EITC. 

Starting in tax year 2025, the state’s child tax credit will double to 40 percent of the state EITC, meaning that it will max out at a bit over $600 for families with three children. Because the federal tax credit that determines its size is tied to inflation, the actual size of future years’ child tax credits is yet to be determined. 

In its first year, the program is expected to cost the state $50 million, with a cost of about $100 million in subsequent years. 

The idea of a permanent child tax credit in Illinois has been floated for several years, with various proposals being put forward by legislators in the General Assembly as well as advocacy groups and think tanks. 

Gov. JB Pritzker pitched a child tax credit in his proposed budget earlier this year that was smaller than the version that passed in the final budget. It would have applied to children under three years old and cost about $12 million. 

Proponents of the idea say that in addition to helping low-income families, programs like this help local economies. 

“Every dollar we invest in the child tax credit is immediately spent locally,” Erion Malasi, the policy director for Economic Security for Illinois, told Capitol News Illinois. 

Researchers at the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, a labor movement-affiliated think tank, found in a January report that child tax credits have a higher economic impact than cuts to corporate income taxes or to capital gains taxes. 

That report also cited several research teams that found the temporary expansion to the federal child tax credit between 2021 and 2023 reduced child poverty in the U.S. by between 25 and 36 percent. That credit provided an additional $1,000 per child on top of an existing $2,000 credit, with increases for younger children. 

State Sen. Omar Aquino, D-Chicago, sponsored legislation that would have created a $300 million child tax credit program that was more expansive than the version that passed. 

Aquino told Capitol News Illinois he will be watching the rollout of the child tax credit to see if there is room for an “expansion” in future budget years or if there is a route for the credit to be automatically applied for qualifying taxpayers. 

The Illinois Department of Revenue is working on guidance for next year's filing season and will provide information about how to claim the child tax credit on its website. 

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

Kansas’ Davids lauds court decision on abortion pill; Marshall critiques Democrats’ IVF bill

BY: TIM CARPENTER - JUNE 13, 2024 4:56 PM

 U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, applauded a decision by the U.S. Supreme Court to turn aside a lawsuit seeking to direct the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to significantly limit access to the abortion pill mifepristone. (Tim Carpenter/Kansas Reflector)

TOPEKA — U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids of Kansas said the U.S. Supreme Court’s rejection of an attempt to undermine the federal Food and Drug Administration’s authorization of a widely available abortion medication wouldn’t be the final act by opponents of reproductive rights.

On Thursday, the Supreme Court said the plaintiffs, comprised of anti-abortion physicians and organizations, didn’t have standing to pursue the lawsuit against the FDA aimed at curtailing access to the drug mifepristone. It’s possible other plaintiffs capable of showing they were harmed by availability of the pill could challenge FDA approval of the drug. It is used in approximately half of all abortions in the United States.

“I will always stand with Kansans who overwhelmingly rejected extremist attempts to limit reproductive health care access,” said Davids, the 3rd District Democrat. “Yet, for the second year in a row, a vital and safe reproductive health care medication was under attack, threatening to strip Kansans’ ability to freely make health care decisions that are best for their families and futures.”

Davids said the Supreme Court opinion was “a victory for our freedoms,” but the legal fight regarding abortion access was far from over. She vowed to continue opposing attempts to “interfere in our most private health care decisions.”

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, signed an amicus brief urging federal courts to rule the FDA overstepped its authority years ago in regard to use of mifepristone. U.S. Reps. Ron Estes, Tracey Mann and Jake LaTurner, signed a brief that argued the Supreme Court should reverse the FDA.

These Kansas lawmakers said the FDA’s action to deregulate “chemical abortion drugs” subverted Congress’ public policy interests and patient welfare.

Mifepristone, which is authorized for up to 10 weeks into a pregnancy, was part of two-drug regimen that included misoprostol as the second pharmaceutical.

Meanwhile, both U.S. senators from Kansas, Republicans Jerry Moran and Marshall, voted Thursday to block legislation offered by Democratic U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois that would affirm the right of women attempting to become pregnant to seek fertility treatments that included in vitro fertilization or IVF.

The Senate vote on that measure was 48-47, short of the 60 votes required to advance the measure.

On Wednesday, Marshall said the Duckworth bill contained “poison pills” that violated the religious freedom of physicians and would unnecessarily broaden access to reproductive technology. He praised a piece of IVF legislation sponsored by Republican U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas.

Marshall, a physician who delivered babies for 30 years in Kansas said, “The country needs to know that Republicans believe in IVF. I happen to believe IVF is a gift from God.”

Sean: Unfortunately for Senator Marshall, he doesn’t speak for all Republicans, many of whom are far out of the mainstream on whether they believe families should be able to access IVF.

And today in unforced errors…

Trump tells House Republicans Milwaukee is a ‘horrible city’

BY: HENRY REDMAN - JUNE 13, 2024 10:51 AM

 Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump speaks during a rally on Wednesday, May 1, in Waukesha, Wisconsin. (Scott Olson | Getty Images)

In a closed door meeting with Republicans in the U.S. House of Representatives, Donald Trump reportedly called Milwaukee, the location of this summer’s Republican National Convention, a “horrible city.” 

Trump’s comments were reported by Punchbowl News’ Jake Sherman. 

“Milwaukee, where we are having our convention, is a horrible city,” Trump is reported to have said on Thursday. 

The former president visited Wisconsin in May, holding a rally in Waukesha. During that visit, he talked about the RNC coming to Milwaukee, making fun of Democrats — who planned to hold the 2020 Democratic National Convention in the city but canceled it due to the COVID-19 pandemic — for not showing up to the city. 

Wisconsin’s House Republicans responded to the report with varying stories about what happened. Rep. Glenn Grothman told reporters Trump was talking about “election integrity” in large urban centers, Rep. Derrick Van Orden said the report was a lie and that Trump was talking about the city’s crime rate and Rep. Bryan Steil denied that Trump made the comment at all.

In response to the comment, Democrats said if Trump doesn’t like Milwaukee, he doesn’t need to come. 

“If Donald Trump hates Milwaukee so much, we have one message for him: don’t come, we won’t miss you — your campaign is barely here in the first place,” Democratic National Committee spokesperson Addy Toevs said in a statement. “In November, Wisconsinites will show Trump how the dislike is mutual and will reject him again once and for all.”

Other Democrats touted Milwaukee’s beer, food and sports teams while connecting the comments to regular Republican attacks against Wisconsin’s largest and most diverse city.

“Donald Trump attacking the great city of Milwaukee as a ‘horrible city’ exactly one month before he shuffles out on stage at the Fiserv reflects the backward, twisted man Donald Trump has always been,” Wisconsin Democratic Party Vice Chair Felesia Martin said. “With entertainment, recreation and a quality of life that is unparalleled — to say nothing of a great basketball team — I am blessed to call Milwaukee home. We’re used to Republican politicians like Donald Trump showing nothing but contempt for Milwaukee and the folks who live here: they know our power, and they’re afraid of the city we are building here, together. Once again, Trump has demonstrated why he should not be elected to the highest office in the land. He does not possess the discipline, respect, thoughtfulness, nor the maturity necessary to lead our country.”

Trump is expected to visit southeastern Wisconsin again next week, for a planned rally in Racine on Tuesday. Because he knows if he wants to be president again, he has to win there. Wild.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-rejects-bid-restrict-access-abortion-pill-rcna151308

1. Not Great: Drug pricing hinges on Missouri, so hold onto your butts
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/13/billions-at-stake-as-national-battle-over-drug-pricing-plays-out-in-missouri/
2. Yeah… No: Senate Republicans IVF protections while claiming pro-life stances
   1. https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/06/13/u-s-senate-republicans-reject-democrats-bill-on-ivf-protections/
3. You Don’t F***ing Say: The banned book about banning books in Florida
   1. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/a-florida-school-district-banned-a-book-about-banned-books/ar-BB1o987B
4. 2024 Election Era Rolls On
   1. Buy or Sell: Scotus spotlight helps Biden for 2024? 
      1. https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-features/samuel-alito-supreme-court-justice-recording-tape-battle-1235036470/
      2. https://www.axios.com/2024/06/13/clarence-thomas-private-trips-gop-harlan-crow
      3. 
          
   2. Inflation perception from June to November: https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/us-wholesale-prices-dropped-may-123828032.html
   3. Trumps VP Sweepstakes Is As Dumb As You’d Think
      1. JD’s whoopsie like history: https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/13/politics/kfile-jd-vance-harsh-twitter-likes-trump-vice-president/index.html
   4. Trump is so not worried about his conviction he’s trying to use Mike Johnson to overturn it
      1. https://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/13/donald-trump-conviction-mike-johnson-00163128
   5. Meanwhile, Biden admin just went HAMF on Russia’s MONEY
      1. https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/13/investing/us-russia-sanctions-dollar-euro-trading/index.html
      2. https://www.cnn.com/2024/06/13/politics/joe-biden-ukraine-g7-donald-trump-vladimir-putin?cid=ios_app
5. All while Trump is talking like he just found the on ramp of a 50mg edible 
   1. https://x.com/atrupar/status/1799894705288761412?s=46&t=mukZUfs5M_R3E9tAHIu-GA

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

SHOW NOTES

1. Mifepristone remains legal after major Supreme Court ruling
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/13/breaking-u-s-supreme-court-rejects-attempt-to-limit-access-to-abortion-pill/

Justice Brett Kavanaugh wrote the opinion in the united ruling from the Supreme Court, with Justice Clarence Thomas writing a concurring opinion.

“Plaintiffs are pro-life, oppose elective abortion, and have sincere legal, moral, ideological, and policy objections to mifepristone being prescribed and used by others,” Kavanaugh wrote.

The four anti-abortion medical organizations and four anti-abortion doctors who originally brought the lawsuit against mifepristone have protections in place to guard against being forced to participate in abortions against their moral objections, he noted.

“Not only as a matter of law but also as a matter of fact, the federal conscience laws have protected pro-life doctors ever since FDA approved mifepristone in 2000,” Kavanaugh wrote. “The plaintiffs have not identified any instances where a doctor was required, notwithstanding conscience objections, to perform an abortion or to provide other abortion-related treatment that violated the doctor’s conscience.”

“Nor is there any evidence in the record here of hospitals overriding or failing to accommodate doctors’ conscience objections,” he added.

1. Trump lackey running for Michigan’s state supreme court
   1. https://michiganadvance.com/briefs/deperno-announces-michigan-supreme-court-run-amid-election-related-criminal-charges/

Matt DePerno, a Republican lawyer who ran for Michigan Attorney General in 2022 with the support of former President Donald Trump, is running for the state’s supreme court while facing charges for reportedly tampering with voting machines after the 2020 presidential election. 

Michigan’s 4-3 Democratic majority state supreme court is falling short of doing its duty, Deperno said in an emailed statement to Michigan Advance.

“After watching the abuse of our legal system both here in Michigan, as well as across the country, it is clear that the Michigan Supreme Court needs members that are committed to following the constitution and rule of law,” DePerno said. “Activist judges, prosecutors, and attorney generals are using their power to prosecute their political enemies. This has to stop.  And that is why I am running for Supreme Court.”

1. Nebraska’s competing abortion petitions
   1. https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/06/13/sorting-through-nebraskas-abortion-ballot-initiatives/

Nebraska voters who want to weigh in this November on the future of abortion in the state have three petitions to consider signing.

One group that is circulating petitions wants to make abortion a state constitutional right. Two other groups circulating petitions both oppose abortion. But their petitions approach the path to further restrictions differently.

Organizers of all three petition initiatives have until July 3 to turn in signatures from 10% of Nebraska registered voters, or about 123,000 people, to the Secretary of State’s Office. Of those, signatures are required from at least 5% of registered voters in at least 38 counties.

1. Kansas Farmers Faced With Major Water Shortage
   1. https://kansasreflector.com/2024/06/13/time-for-a-reckoning-kansas-farmers-brace-for-water-cuts-to-save-ogallala-aquifer/

After 50 years of studies, discussions and hand-wringing about the aquifer’s decline, the state is demanding that local groundwater managers finally enforce conservation. But in this region where water is everything, they’ll have to overcome entrenched attitudes and practices that led to decades of overpumping.

“It scares the hell out of me,” farmer Hugh Brownlee said at a recent public meeting in the district on the changes to come.

Last year, Kansas lawmakers passed legislation squarely targeting the Southwest Kansas Groundwater Management District, which spans a dozen counties. Unlike the two other Kansas districts that sit atop the crucial aquifer, this one has done little to enact formal conservation programs that could help prolong the life of the aquifer. The new law aims to force action.

1. South Carolina Ripe For Full Abortion Ban
   1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/jun/13/south-carolina-abortion-ban

The right to legal abortion in South Carolina is in a “dire” condition, said the state senator Penry Gustafson, who lost her seat on Tuesday to a primary challenger prepared to vote to ban abortion at conception.

Gustafson is one of five female lawmakers dubbed the “sister senators” who blocked legislation to outlaw abortion from the point of conception in the state. The three Republicans among them – Gustafson, Sandy Senn and Katrina Shealy – each drew male primary challengers who competed for conservative primary voters seeking more restrictive abortion access.

1. Missouri begins major project to improve Interstate 70
   1. https://www.missourinet.com/2024/06/13/shovels-come-out-to-break-ground-on-missouris-historic-i-70-expansion/

A groundbreaking ceremony was held today to celebrate the start of construction for the Improve I-70 project, which will widen the interstate to at least three lanes each in both directions from St. Louis to Kansas City.

Construction on the $2.8 billion Improve I-70 Program is set to begin in July. The first phase of the project begins in mid-Missouri, with the interchanges of U.S. Route 63 in Columbia and U.S. Route 54 in Kingdom City.

Gov. Mike Parson was on hand to commemorate the occasion. One of his top priorities throughout his tenure has been to improve Missouri’s infrastructure system.

“What we’re doing in infrastructure in this state is going to set us apart from many, many other states and it’s just, for the future of our state, I can’t even explain how much of an impact it’s going to have. But it’s fun. It’s exciting to finish up your term on a high note like this,” he told reporters.

1. Indiana musician hitting the scene in a big way
   1. https://www.stephenwilsonjr.com/

Stephen Wilson Jr. is a singer/songwriter from rural Southern Indiana. Self-described as “Death Cab For Country,” Stephen Wilson Jr. draws upon indie rock, grunge and country to create a distinct sound that is influenced by artists as diverse as The National, Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp and Nirvana.

​Wilson was raised by a single father who was a boxer and had him boxing from age seven through adulthood as an Indiana State Golden Gloves finalist. The self-taught guitarist moved to Nashville to pursue a degree in Microbiology at MTSU, where he started indie rock band AutoVaughn after finishing his degree. After five years of touring the world as lead guitarist with AutoVaughn, Wilson turned his creative focus toward songwriting and singing. After the band, Wilson relied back on his education where he worked for several years as an R&D scientist at Mars until signing a publishing deal with BMG Nashville in 2016. His songs were soon recorded by acts like Caitlyn Smith, Brothers Osborne, Old Dominion, MacKenzie Porter, Sixpence None the Richer and Leigh Nash.

SOURCES: Missouri Independent, The Guardian, Michigan Advance, Nebraska Examiner, Kansas Reflector, Missourinet.com, Stephenwilsonjr.com

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

https://thedudesthreads.com/collections/usa-abide

Code: Iowa

Dr. Shawn Ellerbroek

https://shawnforiowa.com/

https://www.wartburg.edu/people/dr-shawn-ellerbroek/

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

1. I Have Nothing To back This Up: The rural voter election myth
   1. https://dailyyonder.com/analysis-rural-voters-dont-wield-disproportionate-power-in-senate-electoral-college/2024/05/31/
   2. https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/the-senate-has-always-favored-smaller-states-it-just-didnt-help-republicans-until-now/

1. You Don’t F***ing Say: Senate GOP Blocks Contraception Bill
   1. https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/senate-republicans-block-bill-protect-americans-access-contraception-rcna155448
   2. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/05/u-s-senate-gop-prevents-contraception-access-bill-from-moving-ahead/
2. Yeah…NO: Meat packers start spending major money
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/06/meat-industry-increases-political-spending-lobbying-as-usda-updates-crucial-regulations/
   2. 
       
3. 2024 Election Era featuring 
   1. Steve Bannon is headed to jail
   2. https://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/06/steve-bannon-prison-jan-6-subpoena-trump-00162065
   3. Wisconsin brings charges for 2020 fake elector plot
   4. https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/06/04/wisconsin-charges-2020-trump-electors/
   5. https://www.politico.com/news/2024/06/08/trump-rhetoric-post-conviction-00162365

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

1. Missouri court secrecy law is challenged: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/03/lawsuit-claims-new-missouri-court-secrecy-law-is-unconstitutional/
2. Former Sheriff Deputy Charged With Attempted Child Trafficking: https://www.kfvs12.com/2024/05/31/former-st-francois-county-sheriffs-deputy-wife-charged-with-attempted-sexual-trafficking-minor/
3. Transgener former Blue Springs, MO student wins $4 Million appeal: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/04/missouri-appeals-court-sides-with-transgender-student-in-4-million-discrimination-case/
4. Mo Auditor to Look At Missouri Department of Conservation: https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/news/local/missouri/2024/06/03/missouri-supreme-court-ruling-leads-auditor-review-department-conservation-budget/73957819007/
5. Missouri’s appointed AG snooping around private medical records: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/24/therapists-social-workers-face-scrutiny-in-missouri-ag-investigation-of-transgender-care/
6. MIssouri House Speaker Plocher Draws A Law Suit, And Boy Did He Earn It: https://www.missourinet.com/2024/05/31/longtime-staffer-sues-missouri-house-speaker-over-alleged-retaliation-abuse-of-power/
7. Missouri Can’t Attract Doctors Due To Extreme GOP Policies: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/06/04/missouri-ob-gyn-residents-maternal-health-abortion/
8. Revisiting Adam’s Time At Pride Fest: https://theheartlandcollective.com/2024/06/05/a-pastor-a-politician-and-a-drag-queen-pride-fest-in-a-small-missouri-town/

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/31/media/salem-will-stop-distributing-2000-mules/index.html

True or False: The Dirt Road Democrat PAC is the key to improving Democrat outcomes in rural america

https://www.semafor.com/article/05/24/2024/dirt-road-democrats-look-to-pave-way-for-rural-gains

You don’t f***in’ say: Joe Manchin is an Independent now

https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/congress/sen-joe-manchin-leaves-democratic-party-registers-independent-rcna154885

Buy or Sell: Mike Johnson’s preview having a positive impact for Republicans in 2024

https://www.semafor.com/article/05/29/2024/speaker-mike-johnson-promises-a-republican-mega-bill-that-would-define-donald-trumps-second-term

Project 2025: https://www.project2025.org/

2024 Election Era

• Trump’s conviction continues to push narrative
• Trump floats pardon on Assange: https://au.news.yahoo.com/trump-considers-pardoning-assange-110002723.html
• Trump goes against a freedom caucus member: https://www.axios.com/2024/05/28/trump-backs-freedom-caucus-chiefs-primary-rival
• Meanwhile: Biden campaign is first to be unionized: https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/31/politics/biden-campaign-unionization/index.html
• Biden calling for ceasefire and end to fighting in middle east: https://www.cnn.com/2024/05/31/politics/biden-middle-east-remarks/index.html

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

1. Missouri Republican governor candidate stirs up a hornets nest
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/29/complaint-alleges-jay-ashcroft-campaign-letter-runs-afoul-of-ethics-law/
2. Kansas children in foster care get new options
   1. https://www.kcur.org/politics-elections-and-government/2024-05-28/kansas-will-be-the-first-state-to-let-foster-teens-pick-a-family-without-losing-foster-care-benefits
3. Former Trump lawyer suspended in Colorado
   1. https://www.axios.com/2024/05/29/trump-lawyer-jenna-ellis-colorado-license-suspended
4. Missouri Governor sets August ballot issues, leaving abortion question for November
   1. https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article288813830.html
5. Louisiana chucks the Constitution in favor of the Ten Commandments
   1. https://www.axios.com/local/new-orleans/2024/05/29/louisiana-first-state-require-ten-commandments-schools
6. St. Louis Congressperson Cori Bush in a primary with interesting forces aimed at the squad
   1. https://www.politico.com/live-updates/2024/05/28/congress/dethroning-squad-goals-00160176
7. Wisconsin right wing players are attacking their own in the state assembly
   1. https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/05/29/right-wing-activists-try-for-second-time-to-recall-assembly-speaker-vos/
8. Missouri 5th grader helps pay off school lunch debts in an unfortunately inspirational story
   1. https://abc17news.com/news/national-world/cnn-national/2024/05/26/a-missouri-fifth-grader-raised-enough-money-to-pay-off-his-entire-schools-meal-debt/

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

1. Gov. Parson of Missouri follows up his talk with his pen 
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/20/parson-orders-state-agency-not-to-pay-legal-expenses-for-legislators-facing-defamation-suit/
2. Oklahoma text book regulations push radical agenda through education
   1. https://oklahomavoice.com/2024/05/21/new-criteria-for-oklahoma-textbooks-asks-for-traditional-gender-roles-reverence-for-religion/
3. Iowa study shows modern school choice increases tuition costs 
   1. https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/05/23/study-links-state-esa-program-to-spike-in-iowa-k-12-private-school-tuition/
4. Missouri Republicans Run Run Run from ranked choice voting
   1. https://theheartlandcollective.com/2024/05/22/the-missouri-gop-doesnt-want-ranked-choice-voting/
5. Kansas abortion providers are required to ask why, and they are fighting that law
   1. https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article288606572.html
6. Detroit is BACK in a big way, and its more than just cars
   1. https://www.axios.com/local/detroit/2024/05/20/detroits-brand-biggest-winner-of-population-increase
7. Generations old local newspaper is sold as River Front Times ends in St. Louis
   1. https://www.stlpr.org/2024-05-22/rft-sold-riverfront-times-rip-alt-weekly-staff-laid-off
8. Memorial Day Is here and we have a few facts about the holiday 
   1. https://www.today.com/life/holidays/memorial-day-facts-rcna143916

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

1. Mo Senate comes through on IP reform failure
   1. I believe I had that
   2. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/15/50-hour-filibuster-forces-more-negotiations-on-gop-backed-initiative-petition-changes/
   3. Daily Kos summary, really impressive what this group of 9 senators pulled off
      1. https://t.co/XcRMID31M2
      2. 
          
   4. Crystal Quade 
      1. https://www.nbcnews.com/meet-the-press/video/missouri-democrats-filibuster-effort-to-make-it-harder-to-amend-state-constitution-211088453840
2. Unpacking Sen. Warren’s “build green” bill
   1. https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2024/05/elizabeth-warren-build-green-bill-explained/
3. The Supreme Court upholds consumer protection funding 
   1. https://www.scotusblog.com/2024/05/supreme-court-lets-cfpb-funding-stand/
4. 2024 Election Era
   1. Debates are set, so let’s debate the debates
   2. https://time.com/6978462/presidential-debates-2024-date-time/
   3. 
       
   4. https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2024/05/17/debate-commission-chief-trump-00158689
   5. https://nypost.com/2024/05/16/opinion/how-donald-trump-can-use-the-debates-to-put-joe-biden-away/
   6. https://apnews.com/article/2024-election-presidential-debates-biden-trump-6b1d1dbb2ed61c7637041b23662d7da8

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Missouri Senate Democrats 50 Hour Filibuster | New “youth core” program focuses on mental health | Minnesota Gov. announces boost for child care funding

KS Gov Laura Kelly signs $75 MM boost to special ed funding

https://kansasreflector.com/2024/05/16/kansas-governor-signs-school-funding-bill-with-75-million-boost-for-special-education/

BY: SHERMAN SMITH - MAY 16, 2024 11:38 AM

TOPEKA — Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly signed legislation this week that allocates $6.6 billion to K-12 public schools, including $75 million in new money for special education, and vetoed language designed to funnel safety grant cash to a specific software company.

The Democratic governor and Republican legislators separately claimed credit for continuing to fully fund schools, as required by the state’s constitution and mandated by the Kansas Supreme Court. House Bill 387 passed the House 115-2 and the Senate 35-2 on April 26, shortly before the Legislature adjourned for the year.

The legislation includes $4.9 billion in state spending for the public school system.

Gov Kelly’s message to lawmakers in signing the bill referenced the state’s historical failures to provide adequate and equitable resources to public schools.

In 2018, when Kelly was still a state senator, the Legislature adopted a five-year plan to fully fund schools by the 2022-23 school year. As governor, she worked with lawmakers in 2019 to correct a math problem and add an ongoing inflation adjustment to win approval from the Kansas Supreme Court. The court retained oversight of the case to ensure the Legislature didn’t pull the rug out from under schools as it had repeatedly in the past, then let go of the case earlier this year.

Gov. Kelly said, “When I became governor, my first order of business was to end the cycle of school finance litigation caused by years of underfunding. Reckless leadership and mismanagement of the state’s finances made it impossible for the state to adequately fund our schools. Since then, we’ve seen how investment in our education system pays significant dividends for our entire state. Students now have more opportunities than ever to explore their educational and professional interests. Our commitment to fully funding public education better supports teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators.”

Lawmakers agreed to address a longstanding shortfall in special education funding by adding $75 million to the budget. But they stopped short of meeting recommendations from a special task force, which said lawmakers should add $82.7 million annually for four years to comply with a law requiring the state to cover 92% of extra costs for serving students in special education.

“This funding will provide critical support to districts that have been shouldering the burden of the state’s decade-long failure to meet its statutory obligation and ultimately its promise to the next generation of Kansans,” Kelly said.

At one point this year, the Legislature considered rewriting state law to permanently underfund special education.

Kelly said the new money would allow districts to “properly invest in special education educators” rather than redirect funding that otherwise would be used on teacher salaries and other instruction programs.

“While this funding is a critical first step, it is just a first step. We must continue to increase special education funding in future years.”

Sen. Molly Baumgardner, a Louisburg Republican who chairs the Senate Education Committee, said lawmakers this year focused on crafting a bill that better addresses the needs of students, teachers, and staff members.

She said, “Our commitment to distributing increased special education funding in a more equitable way to Kansas school districts was accomplished by collaborating directly with the Department of Education leadership team. This is an important change for children that receive these special services.”

The governor vetoed language that would have required schools to use the $5 million available through the School Safety and Security Grant program on firearm detection software made by ZeroEyes. The company hired lobbyists in multiple states to try to corner the market on security contracts by inserting restrictions in legislation to undermine the ability of rival vendors to bid.

Kelly said the restrictions amounted to a no-bid contract and would restrict schools from using the money on other types of safety needs. She has the authority to use a line-item veto on the policy because it was embedded in a budget bill.

Schools should be able to invest in other school safety efforts, Kelly said, such as updating communications systems, hiring more security staff, investing in physical infrastructure, and buying automated external defibrillators.

“We must continue to work together to ensure our students have a safe, conducive environment for their learning. To do that, we should not hamstring districts by limiting this funding opportunity to services provided by one company.

Missouri Senate Democrats 50-Hour Filibuster

https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/15/50-hour-filibuster-forces-more-negotiations-on-gop-backed-initiative-petition-changes/

50-hour filibuster forces more negotiations on GOP-backed initiative petition changes

BY: ANNA SPOERRE, RUDI KELLER AND JASON HANCOCK - MAY 15, 2024 6:48 PM

A 50-hour Democratic filibuster forced the Senate’s divided GOP majority to finally yield Wednesday evening, stalling a vote on a bill seeking to make it more difficult to amend Missouri’s constitution.

Democrats have blocked all action in the Senate since Monday afternoon, demanding that the legislation be stripped of “ballot candy” that would bar non-citizens from voting and ban foreign entities from contributing to or sponsoring constitutional amendments, both of which are already illegal.  

The Senate passed the bill without ballot candy in February. The House added it back last month.

Senate Minority Leader John Rizzo, an Independence Democrat, on Tuesday said the situation presented an existential crisis for the Senate, as Republicans openly considered a rarely-used maneuver to kill the filibuster and force a vote on the bill.  

“Are the bullies going to win?” Rizzo asked. “Or is the rest of the Senate finally going to stand up for itself and say ‘no more.’”  

He got an answer just before 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, when state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Coleman, an Arnold Republican and the bill’s sponsor, surprised many of her colleagues by asking that the Senate send the bill back to the House for more negotiations on whether to include “ballot candy.”  

Republicans simply didn’t have the votes to kill the filibuster, she said, and Democrats showed no signs of relenting before session ends at 6 p.m. Friday.  

The sudden change in tactics was not well taken by members of the Freedom Caucus, who argued sending the bill back to the House with only two days left before adjournment puts its chances at risk.  

Tim Jones, a former Missouri House speaker and current director of the state’s Freedom Caucus, wrote on social media Thursday evening that Coleman “effectively killed her bill today.”

If the bill passes, Missourians would have the opportunity to vote later this year on whether or not to require constitutional amendments be approved by both a majority of votes statewide and a majority of votes in five of the state’s eight congressional districts.  

Right now, amendments pass with a simple majority.

A possible vote on abortion in November is a catalyst behind the battle over the bill, as a campaign to legalize abortion up to the point of fetal viability is on the path to the statewide ballot.  

Republicans have said that without raising the threshold for changing the state’s constitution, a constitutional right to abortion will likely become the law of the land in Missouri.  

State Sen. Rick Brattin, a Harrisonville Republican and a member of the Freedom Caucus, tipped his hat to the Democrats’ “wherewithal” before scorning some of his Republican colleagues.  

“Unfortunately, this Republican Party has no backbone to fight for what is right for life,” he shouted from the Senate floor. “ … They will have the blood of the innocent on their heads. Shame on this party.”

Coleman’s move also came as a surprise to state Rep. Alex Riley, a Republican from Springfield who sponsored the initiative petition bill in the House.  

“We’re going to have to have some conversations tonight to figure out what exactly it is they have in mind,” he said.

New “youth core” program focuses on mental health

https://www.axios.com/2024/05/15/youth-mental-health-corps

New program creates "youth corps" for mental health

Hundreds of young adults will be trained to help their peers access mental health care and other supports in a first-of-its-kind service program aimed at addressing the youth mental health crisis.

Backers of the new Youth Mental Health Corps, which is funded by a mix of private and public dollars, also hope to create a new talent pipeline to address shortages of mental health workers.

How it works: Young adults ages 18 and up will spend about a year working at a school or nonprofit to help connect other young people to mental health support.

Corps members will conduct check-ins with students, run trainings for caregivers, conduct community outreach and more.

They'll receive training, a stipend, earn state-specific mental health worker credentials, and credit toward higher education degrees in behavioral health. Participants will receive training in therapeutic communication, crisis intervention, behavioral health systems and other skills. They'll receive a minimum of $20 per hour.

Administrators expect hundreds of young people to join the program in its first year, and thousands to benefit from it.

Colorado Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera, whose state will be one of the first to implement the program this fall said, "Kids can relate more to experiences and challenges faced by other teenagers. It fosters trust and comfort in seeking mental health support."

In addition to Colorado, programs will start this fall in Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey and Texas. Programs in California, Iowa, Maryland, New York, Utah and Virginia are slated to start next year.

The Schultz Family Foundation, created by Starbucks founder Howard Schultz and Sheri Kersch Schultz, and Pinterest, expect to invest $10 million in the program over three years.

Other funding will come from public sources, including state and national AmeriCorps grants.

Schultz said it expects additional philanthropic and private sector donations in the future

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz announces $6MM boost in child care funding

https://minnesotareformer.com/2024/05/15/governor-announces-6-million-in-grants-to-create-more-than-2200-new-child-care-slots/

MN Governor Tim Walz announces $6 million in grants to create more than 2,200 new childcare slots

BY: MADISON MCVAN - MAY 15, 2024 6:02 PM

Twenty-one Minnesota organizations will receive funding to open or expand childcare centers this year, Gov. Tim Walz announced Wednesday, with more than half of the grants going to providers outside the Twin Cities.  

Lawmakers boosted funding for the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s child care grant program last year.  

Gov Walz said Wednesday that child care is an example of a “market failure” during a visit to the St. David’s Center for Child & Family Development in Minnetonka, which received a $270,000 grant to create more classrooms and educational spaces.  

Nationwide, the childcare industry is in crisis. Minnesota is no exception, facing a shortage of childcare providers and high costs for families. Minnesota has some of the highest childcare costs in the country, which could be one explanation for a lower birth rate in recent years.

The Legislature last year voted to continue a COVID-era program that raised the pay for childcare workers, averting a funding cliff.

A coalition of childcare advocates this session pushed for a subsidy program that would reduce the cost of child care for families making less than 150% of the median income. If fully funded at around $500 million per year, families with low income would have their childcare bills covered by the state, while qualifying families making more than the median income would pay around 7% of their household income on child care, a target set by the federal government. Advocates are hoping to move that bill successfully, next year.

Host: Adam Sommer 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

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Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Quick Hit: Missouri IP reform bill in the final week of session: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/10/missouiri-initiative-petition-ballot-bill-freedom-caucus/

1. True or False - Will Americans Be All Aboard Improved Trains? 
   1. https://www.axios.com/2024/05/07/american-rail-brightline-trains-amtrak
2. Climate: While Trump Teams up with big oil, Vermont starts leading on climate costs
   1. https://www.axios.com/2024/05/10/trump-oil-industry-fossil-fuels-biden
   2. Vermont: ​​https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/09/vermont-charge-oil-industry-climate-crisis
3. Yeah NO… Utah’s special bathroom tip line
4. Yeah Yeah… Utah’s special bathroom tip line gets flooded 
   1. https://www.erininthemorning.com/p/utah-auditor-slams-legislature-for
   2. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/08/utah-tip-line-false-trans-bathroom-law-violations
5. You Don’t F***ing Say… Tik Tok lawsuit came immediately
   1. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/05/07/business/tiktok-ban-appeal.html
   2. https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/26/us-china-to-hold-first-ai-talks-tiktok-stalemate-ongoing.html
6. 2024 Election Era
   1. Trump is still in trial, Stormy Daniels killed him, Cohen is this week
      1. https://www.politico.com/news/2024/05/07/indiana-primary-unexpected-warning-signs-donald-trump-00156750
   2. Tea Party basically now swallowed by MAGA and got even older and flamed out https://www.semafor.com/article/05/08/2024/freedomworks-collapse-marks-the-end-of-the-tea-party-era
   3. Halely is picking up votes: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/05/11/nikki-haley-voters-00157455
   4. Biden infrastructure bill just getting started, summer 2024 likely to see millions in spending with major impacts, does it move the needle for 2024? https://www.politico.com/interactives/2024/biden-trillion-dollar-spending-tracker/
   5. RFK Jr confirms what we all suspected, his head is full of worms, malted hops and bong resin, but are his big money backers are the real danger here: https://www.thedailybeast.com/is-nicole-shanahan-robert-f-kennedys-running-mate-the-most-dangerous-woman-in-america

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

On this FLYOVER Friday episode of The Heartland POD

SOURCES: Missouri Independent, Colorado Newsline, The Guardian, Iowa Capitol Dispatch, The Heartland Collective

1. Gov. Parson of Missouri speaks out on politicians' defamation posts
   1. https://x.com/EmilyManleyTV/status/1788606202600997340
   2. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/02/missouri-ag-will-defend-senators-sued-for-defamation-over-posts-about-chiefs-parade-shooting/
2. Colorado secures marriage equality in preemptive move
   1. https://coloradonewsline.com/2024/05/08/repeal-same-sex-marriage-ban-colorado/
3. Scientists in Iowa turn garbage into fuel, and no we don’t mean Marjory Taylor Green’s Twitter feed
   1. https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/05/08/ames-national-laboratory-team-transforms-plastic-waste-into-fuel/
4. Missouri governor signs ceremonial bill in anticipation of court challenges on funding for Planned Parenthood
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/missouri-governor-bill-medicaid-planned-parenthood/
5. Former clerk in Michigan charged for accessing voter information in fraud case
   1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/09/michigan-clerk-charged?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
6. Minnesota governor signs a bill named for Taylor Swift, and it’s already triple platinum and number one on the charts
   1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/08/taylor-swift-bill-minnesota

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

• Major Georgia republican backs Biden for 2024
• Marj and Mike Make MAGA nice… maybe? 
• Missouri GOP continues to fight… with itself

1. The “Missouri is a national indicator” is back! 
   1. Missouri GOP “going to war” over who can and cannot be a member https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article288249290.html
   2. Boone Co. GOP struggling to find a candidate: https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/boone-county-gop-worried-about-finding-candidate-for-senate-seat/
   3. 41 hour filibuster followed by a 10 minute session in MO Senate: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/06/missouri-senate-stalls-out-quickly-on-return-after-41-hour-filibuster/
   4. Missouri GOP convention was just as unproductive, couldn’t even adopt a new platform: https://www.lakeexpo.com/news/politics/high-drama-at-missouri-republican-convention-as-grassroots-boots-leadership/article_4a70706a-0be6-11ef-8713-470db31ecca4.html
2. Speaker Johnson negotiating with terrorist-ish Marjory Taylor Green to keep his job
   1. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-privately-urges-greene-drop-push-oust-speaker/story?id=109990543&cid=social_twitter_abcn
   2. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-privately-urges-greene-drop-push-oust-speaker/story?id=109990543
   3. 
       
3. Geoff Duncan, Republican former Lt. Gov in Georgia and name floated for No Labels is voting for Biden
   1. https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4646773-georgia-republican-backs-biden-blasts-those-in-party-who-fall-in-line-with-trump/
   2. 
       

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

BTW - Over 380,000 signatures submitted on the abortion rights IP… doubled up the requirement 

Quick Hit: Missouri AG might be stepping RIGHT in it: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/02/missouri-ag-will-defend-senators-sued-for-defamation-over-posts-about-chiefs-parade-shooting/

T/F - Anti Trust Is The Defining Issue Of The Biden Admin

https://www.axios.com/2024/04/29/the-latest-sign-that-the-us-is-in-a-new-antitrust-era

Yeah Yeah: Missouri group gathers signatures for wage hike initiative petition

https://missouriindependent.com/2024/05/01/group-turns-in-signatures-to-put-minimum-wage-hike-paid-sick-leave-on-missouri-ballot/

• Abortion we talked about Friday 
• Also add SPORTS GAMBLING - which will be another Freedom Caucus fail
• https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/pro-sports-teams-submit-petition-signatures-to-legalize-sports-gambling-in-missouri/
• 
   

Buy or Sell: A democrat winning a Nebraska Senate seat

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/29/dan-osborn-nebraska-senate-elections?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other

2024 Election Era

• Biden admin rescheduling cannabis https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/04/30/biden-administration-said-to-be-on-the-verge-of-easing-marijuana-regulations/
• Trump trial ft. Micheal “nobody likes you” Cohen
  • https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2024/05/02/trump-michael-cohen-key-witness/
• But Keith Devidson testimony seems important, now known as the “What have we done” lawyer:https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/may/02/donald-trump-hush-money-trial-stormy-daniels
• Biden’s shift post ukrain funding: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/05/02/biden-messaging-strategy-ukraine-funding-00155638
• Senate GOP talking a small game, not as confident about 2024 or just benign cautious? 
  • https://www.politico.com/news/2024/05/02/red-senate-wave-mcconnell-2024-november-00155478
• DeSantis is back?https://www.politico.com/news/2024/05/02/desantis-trump-republican-candidate-fundraising-00155590

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

On this episode of The Heartland POD for Friday, May 3, 2024 - a Flyover Friday including

1. Missouri abortion petition hits the mark on signatures - not the next challenges begin
2. Kansas Legislature allows Governor Kelly’s veto to stand
   1. https://kansasreflector.com/2024/04/29/kansas-house-fails-to-override-veto-on-bill-that-would-ban-gender-affirming-care-for-kids/
   2. 
       
3. Missouri state senator accused of blocking appointments in favor of himself
   1. Missouri governor says Democrat senator blocked appointments after seeking one for himself
4. Court overrules ban on trans care in West Virginia and North Carolina
   1. Victory! Fourth Circuit Rules North Carolina and West Virginia Can’t Deny Transgender People Coverage for Medical Care - Lambda Legal
5. Colorado house passes migrant welcome bill
   1. Colorado bill to establish migrant welcome grant program passes House
6. Missouri freedom caucus fails, again
   1. Freedom Caucus ends filibuster in Missouri Senate without action on its demands
7. Mike Johnson may be getting ousted… or saved by Democrats? Huh?
   1. Marjorie Taylor Greene to force vote next week on ousting U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson • Missouri Independent
   2. U.S. House Democrats vow to back Speaker Johnson if Republicans try to oust him • Iowa Capital Dispatch

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

True or False: There is a way for Democrats to reach independent voters/swing voters who are NOT moved by abortion as an issue(listener submission from Kim Goodman)

• Examples Kim hit on are infrastructure, good governance type issues
• What about when a major financial player comes out to say the economy is booming? 
  • https://nypost.com/2024/04/23/business/jamie-dimon-says-us-economy-is-unbelievable-and-booming/
  • Dimon (this is Rachel saying this) has a short f*cking memory: “I would like to see practitioners go back to the government.”
  • Uh. Goldman Sachs much, Jamie?
  • New polling data: https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/28/politics/cnn-poll-trump-biden-matchup/index.html

You Don’t F***ing Say….

• “Well well well, if it isn’t the consequences of my own actions…”
• The Gateway Pundit, noted right wing rag publication, is going bankrupt thanks to its own lies
• https://www.axios.com/2024/04/24/gateway-pundit-bankruptcy-lawsuit

Yeah… Yeah! 

• Possible preview of other similar 2024 races, the progressive house candidate wins
• https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/23/summer-lee-wins-pennsylvania-primary?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other

2024 Election Era

• Abortion still front and center as issue 1 and 2: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/live/2024/apr/24/supreme-court-abortion-emergency-biden-trump-latest-updates?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
• Biden goes on Howard Stern - pretty sure he drove a Delorean to get there - and literally is just taunting Trump and I’m here for it
  • https://dnyuz.com/2024/04/26/biden-taunts-trump-calling-him-a-loser-trying-to-get-under-his-skin/
• “Chris Christie Says Trump Looks Terrible”  - headline of the week?
  • https://www.nbcmontana.com/news/nation-world/chris-christie-says-trump-looks-terrible-amid-new-york-trial-former-gop-presidential-candidate-university-of-chicago-gop-president-white-house-washington
• Polling continues to show improvement for Biden, and the third party folks seem to be waning a tad: https://www.270towin.com/2024-presidential-election-polls/national
• WH Correspondents Dinner Biden win? https://www.axios.com/2024/04/28/white-house-correspondents-dinner-biden-trump-gaza

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

On this episode of The Heartland POD for Friday, April 26, 2024 - a Flyover Friday including

1. Missouri’s GOP-run legislature moves forward on silencing voters
2. The tough guy Olympics between two of Missouri’s state-wide GOP candidates
3. Biden admin moves to protect workers' wages
4. The Supreme Court hears the Presidential Immunity arguments

1. Missouri state house GOP has sent the initiative petition “reform” bill back to the senate with language called “ballot candy” reinserted

https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/25/missouri-initiative-petition-bill-ballot-candy-reinstated/

From article: The bill was initially approved earlier this year after Democrats ended their 21-hour filibuster in exchange for the removal of “ballot candy” provisions — referring to unrelated additions to a ballot measure designed to win voters who are skeptical of a proposal’s main focus. 

On Thursday, the House added language to the bill that would ask Missourians if they want to change the constitution to define legal voters as citizens of the United States as well as whether they want to prohibit foreign entities from sponsoring initiative petitions. 

Democrats called the additions “unnecessary” and “deceptive.”

“This feels to me like another situation where this body is being asked to bend to the will of the Senate,” said state Rep. Eric Woods, a Democrat from Kansas City. “We are putting this bad stuff back on to send it back over there and watch the Senate explode again as if we aren’t already in enough turmoil in this building.” 

After the Senate vote in February, state Sen. Mary Elizabeth Colemen, a Republican from Arnold and the bill’s sponsor, asked the House Committee on Elections and Elected Officials  to reinstate the “ballot candy.”

The committee complied. After an hour-long debate Thursday morning, the bill ultimately passed, with House Majority Leader Jon Patterson of Lee’s Summit the lone “no” vote among his Republican colleagues.

2. Missouri Republican elected officials are fighting hard… at least with each other

First Hoskins vid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rID2bvi1VEs&t=41s

Second Hoskins vid: https://youtube.com/shorts/cZ2iiL5pt7M?si=Wy3alsOWnpr9B1rH

Special uncovered 3rd video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1fopvzf77b8&rco=1

https://www.riverfronttimes.com/news/jay-ashcroft-is-a-chickenshit-gop-senator-says-repeatedly-on-video-42376787

3. New FLSA rule from Biden/Harris admin to protect low wage salary employees from being taken advantage of: https://www.dol.gov/newsroom/releases/whd/whd20240423-0

• Think - Casey’s store Asst Managers getting paid a salary to work well over 40 hours in a week
• Effective July 1, 2024, the salary threshold will increase the present annual salary threshold of $35,568 to $43,888 and then to $58,656 on Jan. 1, 2025. The July 1 increase updates 

4. US Supreme Court held a special session on April 25, originally not set as an argument day, in the appeal regarding “Trump v. US” - certainly an appropriate naming - regarding presidential immunity

Transcript of argument: https://www.supremecourt.gov/oral_arguments/argument_transcripts/2023/23-939_l5gm.pdf

What some of the media is saying

CNN: https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/25/politics/takeaways-trump-immunity-supreme-court/index.html

Fox: https://www.foxnews.com/politics/scotus-sees-dangerous-precedent-trump-immunity-case-presidents-prosecute-rivals-experts

NPR: https://www.npr.org/2024/04/25/1246376720/donald-trump-supreme-court-immunity

Meanwhile in another Courtroom: https://www.threads.net/@griffinkyle/post/C6MLx6Ru7og

Pecker’s testimony: https://www.foxnews.com/live-news/april-25-new-york-trump-trial-supreme-court-immunity

Funny stuff: https://www.threads.net/@gtconway3/post/C6MDMCHOXZ6

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Info for MO Initiative Petition: Missourians for Const. Freedom

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Quick Hits

• Justice Thomas skips court: Adam wrote a thing
• https://theheartlandcollective.com/2024/04/19/an-open-letter-to-clarence-thomas/

Volkswagen plant in Tn votes to unionize 

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/19/business/economy/volkswagen-united-automobile-workers-union.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

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True or False 

People understand the current assault on public education 

Missouri’s new, we’ll call it an education bill, is  likely to be signed 

https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/18/missouri-house-narrowly-sends-private-school-tax-credit-charter-expansion-to-governors-desk/

Yeah…No 

What do you do with the kids who aren’t in school? Put them to work of courses and in Louisiana if you're a CHILD at work things just went from already bad because you’re a child at work, to worse 

https://www.nola.com/news/politics/legislature/la-lawmakers-vote-to-remove-lunch-breaks-for-child-workers/article_ef234692-fd9e-11ee-99f5-771c7366107a.html

HUH… Mike Johnson, Whaaaa Happppennnn?
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/21/us/politics/mike-johnson-turnaround.html

https://www.cnn.com/2024/04/21/politics/ukraine-aid-mike-johnson-house-speaker-israel-taiwan/index.html

https://www.politico.com/news/2024/04/20/johnson-mvp-house-foreign-aid-00153497

2024 Election Era

Senate map edition 

Buy or sell: The map is in flux as we speak 

Florida, could it be a race? 

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/19/debbie-mucarsel-powell-interview-democrat-florida-senate-abortion

Missouri could it be a race?

What is a realistic list of key Senate races?

Jan. Article https://www.cnn.com/2024/01/01/politics/senate-race-rankings-january-2024?cid=ios_app

Early April NY times

https://www.nytimes.com/article/senate-races-2024-election.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare

Cook Political 

https://www.cookpolitical.com/ratings/senate-race-ratings

Last Call: Trump Trial Trickles On

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

The Heartland POD, Friday April 19, 2024: Flyover Friday 

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1. Missouri House Speaker Plocher The Blocker

https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/15/speaker-dean-plocher-accused-of-absolute-obstruction-in-house-ethics-investigation/

BY: JASON HANCOCK - APRIL 15, 2024 9:34 PM

On Monday of this week, bipartisan leaders of the House Ethics Committee alleged that Missouri House Speaker Dean Plocher obstructed an investigation of his official acts through pressure on potential witnesses and refusing to issue subpoenas.

Some potential witnesses allegedly refused to speak out of fear Plocher would use his power as speaker to retaliate against them. And Plocher refused to cooperate with the attorney hired to collect evidence for the committee. 

A report laying out findings from the ethics committee’s months-long investigation that was released Monday night concluded the committee lacked direct evidence of ethical misconduct in Plocher’s advocacy for a six-figure software contract, in his firing of a former staffer, or in years of filing false expense reimbursement reports. 

But Republican state Rep. Hannah Kelly of Mountain Grove, the committee’s chair, and Democratic state Rep. Robert Sauls of Independence, the vice chair, said the report demonstrates “absolute obstruction” that hindered the committee’s efforts to get to the truth. 

Plocher, a candidate for secretary of state, declined to comment. 

The report recommended a formal letter of disapproval for Plocher, that he hire an accounting professional to manage his expense reports moving forward, and that he refrain from retaliation against any legislator or House employee who cooperated with the committee. 

The report also recommended further review by the House into allegations of threats made against legislative employees during the course of the investigation. 

The report states Plocher’s actions “substantially impair public confidence in the General Assembly,” 

Plocher’s troubles spilled out into the public in September, when he was accused of engaging in “unethical and perhaps unlawful conduct” as part of a months-long push outside the normal bidding process to get the House to award an $800,000 contract to a private company to manage constituent information.

As part of that contract push, Plocher allegedly threatened the jobs of nonpartisan staff who raised red flags. 

A month later, The Missouri Independent reported Plocher had on numerous occasions over the last five years illegally sought taxpayer reimbursement from the legislature for airfare, hotels and other travel costs already paid for by his campaign.

As for the threats against nonpartisan staff, there was also no direct evidence implicating the speaker, though the report states that several employees testified under oath about threats and a “negative work environment.”

The attorney hired to collect evidence for the committee marveled at the overarching fear of retaliation among House staff, saying “I have not encountered more unwilling witnesses in any investigation in my career. The level of fear expressed by a number of the potential witnesses is a daunting factor in completing this investigation.”

2. Speak into the mic Mrs. Sanders, The People Paid Good Money For it

https://www.axios.com/local/nw-arkansas/2024/04/17/podiumgate-audit-sarah-huckabee-sanders-arkansas

Alex Golden

The Arkansas Legislative Audit this week wrapped up its investigation into the purchase of a $19,000 podium by Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' administration.

The audit report reveals the governor's office may have broken state law in several instances, including:

• Applying the purchase to operating expenses when it didn't meet criteria.
• Not notifying the Department of Transformation and Shared Services, therefore preventing the purchase from being properly recorded.
• Not seeking an exemption from the state procurement director for disposal of state property.
• Shredding the delivery note
• Altering a public record. Auditors found three versions of an invoice, two of which contained a handwritten notation made after the record was entered into the Arkansas Administrative Statewide Information System.
• Transformation and Shared Services also may have violated state law by excluding multiple invoices paid for with the governor's office credit card.

Days before the release of the report, state Attorney General Tim Griffin said the governor is not subject to two state laws that if she were, could be problematic. The AG says the laws do not apply to the Governor of Arkansas. 

3. Michigan GOP Is Gonna Try Again On Right To Work

https://michiganadvance.com/2024/04/17/house-gop-announce-plans-to-bring-back-right-to-work-snyder-era-economic-policies/

BY: KEN COLEMAN, SUSAN J. DEMAS AND KYLE DAVIDSON - APRIL 17, 2024 5:18 PM

A day after state House Democrats won two special elections to regain a majority, Republicans on Wednesday announced a plan “to grow local economies”. Bringing back so-called Right to Work - a policy meant to reduce the power of labor unions - is one of the GOP’s top priorities. 

Last year, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation repealing the 2012 Right to Work law that had been on the books since 2012. The controversial law allowed workers to get all union benefits without having to pay dues.

4. Women harmed by abortion restrictions campaign against Trump in Wisconsin

https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/04/17/women-harmed-by-abortion-restrictions-campaign-against-trump-in-wisconsin/

BY: BAYLOR SPEARS - APRIL 17, 2024 5:45 AM

Two women, who said their states’ abortion restrictions exacerbated their experience with medical difficulties during pregnancy, told their stories Tuesday while campaigning for President Joe Biden at a round table event in Madison.

Their visit is one of four stops they are making this week in Wisconsin — a battleground state that could play a decisive role in the 2024 presidential election. Democrats are focusing on abortion as an issue that could help drive voters to the polls. 

Amanda Zurawski of Houston, Texas said she underwent “grueling” fertility treatments for a year and a half. She and her husband, Josh were “over the moon” when she finally became pregnant. While her first trimester was pretty easy, she said she suffered from “catastrophic complications” at 18 weeks. She said she needed an abortion, but her state’s abortion ban made it illegal.

“My doctor would have been at risk of losing her license, hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of fines and even jail time, so I was told to just wait until I got so sick that my life was considered in danger, which is one of the rare exceptions in Texas,”. She waited three days before she developed sepsis — a potentially fatal  condition resulting from infection — and doctors finally provided her care, stabilizing her and ending her pregnancy with the baby she named Willow. She was in the intensive care unit for several days afterwards. 

Zurawski said she realized in her “dark and lonely hospital room” that she was “actually lucky because I lived and I knew others might not be so lucky.” 

“What I went through was nothing short of barbaric and it did not need to happen,” said Zurawski, who was a lead plaintiff in a lawsuit against Texas due to its abortion ban. “It was completely avoidable. It was completely preventable, and it happened because of Donald Trump.” 

Kaitlyn Joshua of Louisiana, said that she and her husband, Landon, were thrilled to learn that she was pregnant. They already had one daughter, who was 3, and it made sense for them to add to their family.

Early in her pregnancy, Joshua said she started experiencing cramping and spotting, and at 11 weeks, she experienced major blood loss and pain. She sought care at a Baton Rouge emergency room, where she was told she was experiencing a miscarriage, but was provided no support.

She said, “We’re simply asking for the most basic level of internal health care but because of Donald Trump’s laws, we are being denied basic care.” (Baylor Spears | Wisconsin Examiner)

“Because of the state’s abortion ban, the health care team was afraid. They instead sent me home, sent home on prayers. I remember the young lady said ‘We’ll be praying for you and you’re just gonna have to handle this at home.’” 

Joshua went to a second hospital where she was also told to wait. She said it took her almost a month to complete the miscarriage on her own. 

Women across Louisiana and across the country are having similar experiences.

“Because of abortion bans, physicians simply cannot do their job and practice medicine based on their training expertise. We’re simply asking for the most basic level of internal health care, but because of Donald Trump, we are being denied basic care.”

Former President Donald Trump has said in recent weeks that abortion policy should be left to the states. He has also said that he would support a 16-week nationwide ban.

The U.S. has been left with a patchwork of abortion laws with many states having implemented bans due to the U.S. Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade.

Abortion services were halted completely in Wisconsin until recently, due to an 1849 law that many thought was in force on the reversal of Roe.

Rep. Lisa Subeck (D-Madison) said, “We didn’t have abortions available in Wisconsin for a year. Due to a court decision, right now they’re available, but we know how fragile it is, we know that that can change at any time. We also know that if Donald Trump is elected, that will almost certainly change.” 

5. KS Congressman Jake LaTurner turns toward home. 

Andrew Solender

https://www.axios.com/2024/04/18/jake-laturner-retire-house-gop-kansas

A 36-year-old House Republican who has served in Congress just three years said Thursday he will not seek reelection in November.

Rep. Jake LaTurner's (R-Kan.) retirement is a stark addition to a trend of House Republicans sprinting for the exits after a year filled with infighting and discord.

Two House Republicans told Axios they expect more retirement announcements in the coming weeks.

LaTurner, who was first elected in 2020, said "the current dysfunction on Capitol Hill is distressing."  LaTurner makes nearly 20 House Republicans who have left or are planning to leave Congress without immediate plans to run for another office. Another five are seeking higher office.

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wisc.), a 40-year-old onetime GOP rising star, is planning to resign in the middle of his term to take a job in the private sector.

Rep. Patrick McHenry (R-N.C.), the 48-year-old chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee who reached the zenith of his political career last year as the House speaker pro tempore, is also retiring.

The retirements come as a growing number of right-wing hardliners are threatening to join an effort to oust House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.).

Johnson is moving ahead with plans to hold a vote on a foreign aid package that includes aid to Ukraine, which Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has said would trigger a vote to remove him. The three-week speaker vacancy last year spurred a wave of retirements, particularly within the GOP.

LaTurner has $676,000 cash on hand and no Republicans were running against him; this sets up a likely wild primary and maybe even a flip opportunity for Democrats.

SOURCES: Michigan Advance, Wisconsin Examiner, Axios, Politico, The Missouri Independent,Pro.STateaffairs.com, Kansas reflector, 

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Quick Hits: Sign up to help restore abortion access in Missouri: https://moconstitutionalfreedom.org/

1. T/F - The Arizona Abortion outcome was the event horizon for 2024 
   1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/10/trump-arizona-abortion-ban?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
   2. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/apr/13/democrats-abortion-voter-arizona-florida?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
   3. Missouri petition going to November www.stlpr.org/government-politics-issues/2024-04-11/missourians-likely-wont-vote-on-abortion-legalization-until-november
2. Yeah… Yeah!  - AI training legislation
   1. https://thehill.com/homenews/house/4583318-schiff-unveils-ai-training-transparency-measure/?ref=platformer.news
   2. NOTE: When Rachel is referring to "Amazon" and Perplexity AI she is using Amazon and Bezos interchangably 
3. Yeah…NO
   1. The Catholic Church talking about human dignity - you know the ones with all The priests that got hidden even though people were fully aware they were moseying kids, they have thoughts on human dignity now
   2. https://www.npr.org/2024/04/08/1243374931/vatican-sex-change-surrogacy-gender-theory-grave-threats-abortion
   3. 
       
4. 2024 Election Era
   1. Biden canceling more debt: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/12/student-loan-cancellations-7billion-biden
      1. Then Goes To Wisconsin to toot that horn: https://missouriindependent.com/briefs/in-wisconsin-biden-underlines-plans-to-help-college-students-with-unsustainable-debts/
   2. Biden admin closing gunshownloophole
      1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/11/gun-show-internet-sale-mandatory-background-check
   3. 
       
   4. Trump’s “election integrity” paradox: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/12/trump-anti-mail-in-voting?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
   5. Biden camps “connection” v. “convention” feel
      1. Smaller groups not rallys
         1. https://apnews.com/article/president-biden-election-small-events-652f2b2ebfc54dd92ff8a48688308a88
             

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

The heartland collective - pro publica - arkansas advocate - indiana capitol chronicle - wisconsin examiner - missouri independent  - cnn

Arkansas tries to hold private schools accountable while in Idaho public schools crumble
https://arkansasadvocate.com/2024/04/08/arkansas-groups-declare-neutrality-opposition-to-proposed-education-ballot-initiative/

https://www.propublica.org/article/idaho-students-educators-show-us-effects-of-underfunded-schools

Wisconsin Gov. Evers Vetos Bill That Would Have rolled back labor laws for children

https://wisconsinexaminer.com/2024/04/08/evers-vetoes-bill-that-would-have-eliminated-work-permits-for-younger-teens/

Indiana DNR Identifies Wasting Disease In The Wild

https://indianacapitalchronicle.com/briefs/dnr-reports-first-ever-positive-case-of-deadly-chronic-wasting-disease-in-indiana/

Michigan Parents Held Accountable for child’s action in school shooting

https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/james-jennifer-crumbley-sentencing-04-09-24/index.html

Water Wars Coming To Missouri? 
https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/10/the-water-wars-are-coming-missouri-looks-to-limit-exports-from-rivers-lakes/

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

BE WELL

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Quick Hits

• Woke Meat and The Twitter media sinkhole (THC highlights)
• https://theheartlandcollective.com/news/

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True or False 2024 will be seen as a “reset” election

County to County movement from Blue to Red: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/04/swing-states-see-newcomers-as-americans-move-from-blue-to-red-counties/

Sean and Adam discussed Daily Yonder article in Friday’s flyover show

Yeah…No Nebraska’s (almost) unique electoral college set up is on the Trump team’s radar for nefarious reasons

https://www.semafor.com/article/04/05/2024/inside-the-battle-over-nebraskas-electoral-college-votes

Six months ago, Nebraska Republican Party Chairman Eric Underwood pitched Ronna McDaniel on a simple idea that could help the GOP win the presidency again.

Since 1991, Nebraska had split its electoral votes; two for the statewide winner, then three for the winner of each congressional district. Trump lost the Omaha-based 2nd district in 2020, and if the GOP lost it again in 2024 — even if it flipped Arizona, Nevada, and Georgia — it would lose the presidency by a single vote. There was a bill frozen in the state legislature that could change that, assigning all five electors to the statewide winner, if Republicans rescued it. Underwood’s question for the RNC chair and its legal counsel was: Would the national party help?

But wait… there’s more: https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2024/04/05/sources-say-trump-sought-to-directly-pressure-nebraska-state-senator-over-winner-take-all-proposal/

Sources say Trump sought to directly pressure Nebraska state senator over winner-take-all proposal

Yeah…Yeah

The Green Bank Funding from Biden Admin: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/04/biden-climate-green-bank

Related positive environmental news traced directly to Biden’s pen: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/06/indigenous-american-tribes-funding-manage-ocean-coasts?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other

YDFS - Jon Stewart left apple show because he’s still Jon Stewart: https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/2/24118814/jon-stewart-apple-tv-plus-daily-show-lina-khan-interview

2024 Election Era

• Biden camp raising money so fast it’s making the Obama 2008 efforts look cute and adorable: https://www.npr.org/2024/04/06/1243189101/biden-trump-campaign-money
• Trump team using 2020 election deniers in leadership; https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/01/republican-election-integrity-denier?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
• Trump team is the District 5 hockey team and bad news bears but without the loveable goofball characters: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/06/trump-campaign-rnc-2024-election
• Trump 2024 is a more disturbing creature, somehow: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/06/donald-trump-speech-analysis?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
• Biden gets bid check from former GOP lawyer Conway: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/03/george-conway-biden-donation-fundraiser-campaign
• Trump’s media funding: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/03/trump-media-es-family-trust-2022-loans?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
• Trump media shares continue to tank in a tangible example of what a second Trump admin means for America at large: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-media-stock-price-truth-social-djt/
• https://finance.yahoo.com/news/nothing-in-markets-goes-without-saying-chart-of-the-week-120047479.html

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

SOURCES: The Missouri Independent, KMBC news, Iowa Capital Dispatch, Kansas Reflector, St Louis Post-Dispatch, and The Guardian

SHOW NOTES

1. 3 Missouri State Senators Sued
   1. https://missouriindependent.com/2024/04/04/three-missouri-state-senators-sued-for-defamation-over-posts-about-chiefs-parade-shooting/
   2. https://www.kmbc.com/article/olathe-kansas-man-wrongly-identified-as-chiefs-parade-shooter-sues-3-missouri-lawmakers/60388311
2. Three Missouri Republicans – including one running for statewide office – are being sued for defamation over social media posts incorrectly identifying a Kansas man as an undocumented immigrant and the shooter at the Kansas City Chiefs’ Super Bowl victory celebration.
3. On Tuesday, Denton Loudermill of Olathe, Kansas, filed federal lawsuits against state Sens. Rick Brattin of Harrisonville, Denny Hoskins of Warrensburg and Nick Schroer of Defiance. Loudermill last week filed a similar complaint against U.S. Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee. The four lawsuits are almost identical in their allegations against, which involve the lawmakers using social media platforms to repost a photo of Loudermill in handcuffs shortly after the shooting. “The publication of the false representation that plaintiff was an ‘illegal alien’ and a ‘shooter’ was not made in good faith nor was it made by defendant with any legitimate interest in making or duty to make such assertions,” the lawsuit against Brattin states. 
4. Wisconsin Voters Vote To Limit Voting… No Seriously
   1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/04/wisconsin-amendments-harmful-voting-elections?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
   2. Wisconsin voters enshrined in the state constitution on Tuesday two amendments that election officials and voting rights advocates worry will hurt election administration in the state.
   3. The first bans election offices from accessing private grants – a source of revenue that election officials relied on in 2020 to run elections during the pandemic and have since used to stock voting equipment in polling places.
   4. During the 2020 elections, election offices across the country – already chronically underfunded – accessed grants from the Center for Tech and Civic Life, a non-profit organization funded by Mark Zuckerberg, the Meta CEO, and his wife, Priscilla Chan. The grants were doled out with the explicit purpose of funding Covid-19 mitigation in polling places, and election offices used the money for things like personal protective equipment and to set up drive-through, contactless voting.
   5. 
       
5. Iowa Senate Says “Suck It Up” to folks hurt by mega corporation chemicals
   1. https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/2024/04/02/iowa-senate-votes-to-limit-lawsuits-over-roundup-other-farm-and-lawn-chemicals/
   2. A bill that would partially shield the maker of a widely used agricultural and lawn herbicide from lawsuits over its health effects was adopted by the Iowa Senate on Tuesday.
   3. Senate File 2412 would protect Bayer against claims it failed to warn people about the potential health effects of Roundup so long as its product is labeled as required by federal regulators.
   4. The legislation would apply to all domestic producers of herbicides and pesticides, but eliminating the failure-to-warn claims is part of Bayer’s public strategy to “manage and mitigate the risks of Roundup litigation,” according to its website.
   5. The company hopes the U.S. Supreme Court decides that the claims are overruled by federal law, which the company predicts “could largely end the Roundup litigation.” But a federal appeals court rejected that argument in February.
   6. Bayer says about 167,000 lawsuits have been filed by people who claim their exposure to Roundup caused ailments such as cancer, often non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The herbicide has been used to kill weeds for about four decades. The litigation has cost the company billions of dollars.
   7. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has said Roundup’s primary ingredient, glyphosate, is not likely to cause cancer in humans and that it poses no health risks “when used in accordance with its current label.” But in 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer determined glyphosate is “probably carcinogenic to humans.”
6. Missouri House Speaker Plocher, Now Candidate for Secretary of State, Narrows Focus
   1. https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/government-politics/investigation-of-missouri-s-house-speaker-zeroes-in-on-lobbyist-aides-and-advisers/article_f77bc748-f203-11ee-8b90-d33ac8c58ed3.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter
   2. An investigation of the leader of the Missouri House appears to be focused on his efforts to steer an $800,000 state contract to a software vendor.
   3. Meeting for the seventh time since launching a probe into House Speaker Dean Plocher, the House Ethics Committee was expected to take closed-door testimony Wednesday from a handful of aides and advisers.
   4. If Plocher appears, it would mark his second time before the bipartisan panel, which has hired an investigator to conduct interviews and help prepare a report outlining any findings.
   5. Among those on the schedule is Rod Jetton, whom Plocher hired as his chief of staff last year as the scandal was unfolding. Jetton told the Post-Dispatch Wednesday he was not sure what information the committee wanted from him.
   6. 
       
7. Tennessee Woman Sues State Over Abortion Restrictions
   1. https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/04/tennessee-abortion-ban?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other
   2. January 2023, whenever Kathryn Archer took her young daughter out to the local playground in Nashville, Tennessee, strangers often noticed her visibly pregnant stomach and wanted to make small talk.
   3. “When are you due?” they would ask Archer. “Do you know if you’re having a boy or a girl?” “Oh, I bet your daughter’s so excited to be a big sister.”
   4. Archer did not know how to tell them the truth: in early January, Archer’s fetus had been diagnosed with several serious anomalies that made a miscarriage likely. If Archer did give birth, her baby could only be treated with surgeries and lifelong help – pain that Archer was unwilling to put a newborn through. Without those surgeries, which the infant might not survive, Archer’s baby would die shortly after birth.
   5. But due to Tennessee’s near-total abortion ban, Archer could not terminate her pregnancy in her home state and, instead, had to wait more than three weeks for an appointment at an out-of-state abortion clinic.
   6. “I don’t want to confide in a stranger that I’m having to get an abortion because my baby can’t survive outside of my womb and I can’t get the care that I need as soon as I need it,” Archer recalled thinking. “Those three weeks were really bizarre, challenging, painful – beyond what it needed to be.”
8. Investigation Into Marion Co. Raid That Killed Former Publisher in Kansas Is Winding Up
   1. https://kansasreflector.com/2024/04/02/colorado-authorities-wrapping-up-investigation-into-marion-police-who-raided-kansas-newspaper/
   2. The Colorado Bureau of Investigation is nearly finished with its inquiry into potential criminal activity surrounding the raid on the Marion County Record last year and will turn over findings to special prosecutors later this month, state authorities said Tuesday.
   3. The announcement comes a day after the Marion County Record filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking damages for alleged violations of civil rights.
   4. Melissa Underwood, a spokeswoman for the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, said Riley County Attorney Barry Wilkerson and Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennett would determine whether to file criminal charges against journalists, law enforcement officers or anyone else.
   5. 
       

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

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“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

RNC also reshaped for election issues not just money: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/apr/01/republican-election-integrity-denier

As Donald Trump’s presidential campaign has cemented its hold on the Republican National Committee (RNC), alarms are being raised about the organization’s tapping of the fervent election denialist Christina Bobb to run an “election integrity” unit.

Bobb is a former Trump lawyer and ex-reporter for the far-right One America News Network, who gained prominence after Trump’s 2020 loss for promoting bogus fraud charges in Arizona, Wisconsin and elsewhere, and was part of Trump-backed efforts to substitute fake electors for ones that Joe Biden won in some states.

Read more

Bobb helped spread phoney voting fraud claims with Trump’s former lawyer Rudy Giuliani and the former campaign operative Mike Roman, both of whom along with Trump and others face charges in Fulton county, Georgia, of conspiring to overturn Biden’s win there; Bobb was not charged.

Last year Bobb wrote Stealing Your Vote: The Inside Story of the 2020 Election and What It Means for 2024, a book that was chock full of baseless charges about 2020 election fraud.

Trump allies pro-white supremacy plans: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/01/trump-reverse-racism-civil-rights

Exit Polls show major issue for Trump: https://twitter.com/kylegriffin1/status/1765139166910713997?s=46&t=mukZUfs5M_R3E9tAHIu-GA

Anemic Campaign: https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4568360-trump-rnc-tease-campaign-activity-uptick-but-offer-few-details/

RNC Socials Are Pure MAGA now: https://www.msnbc.com/opinion/msnbc-opinion/rnc-research-social-media-maga-rcna145622

100% all in on the border as THE issue for 2024: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/02/trump-biden-bloodbath-website-immigration

And now…Charlie Kirk. Fucking Moron.

https://www.threads.net/@bidenharrishq/post/C5RcLsrJbLw

Host: Adam Sommer 

Find Adam on tik-tok  (maybe) and bluesky as "midmapdadenergy" - follow The Process on instagram. 

JOIN PATREON FOR MORE 

“Change The Conversation”

Outro Song: “The World Is On Fire” by American Aquarium 

http://www.americanaquarium.com/

Nothing on this channel is to be taken as legal advice for any jurisdiction. All statements are opinions that reflect on that of the speaker and the purpose of the show is to provide space for discussion that may include statements or opinions shared only for the purpose of discussion. Listening to "The Process" is not legal advice and should not be relied upon for personal legal needs.

Quick Hits

• White House Moving On Art. Intelligence https://www.semafor.com/article/03/27/2024/white-house-orders-agencies-to-tap-chief-ai-officers
• Sam Bankman-Fried is going to PRISON: https://www.semafor.com/article/03/28/2024/sbf-sentenced-to-25-years-in-ftx-fraud-case

1. True or False…
   1. Public Education attacks will be a sneaky factor in the erosion of GOP power in red states  
      1. Missouri: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/03/28/opposition-remains-for-sprawling-education-bill-expanding-missouri-private-school-tax-credits/
      2. Tennessee - going after a public HBCU: https://www.tennessean.com/story/news/politics/2024/03/28/republican-lawmakers-vacate-full-tennessee-state-university-board/73124246007/
      3. 
          
2. Yeah No…
   1. The Entire RFK, Jr. run, made worse now by his openly anti-IVF running mate who’s main qualification for being VP is that she financed RFK’s super bowl commercial, that he distanced himself from after it aired
      1. https://www.rollingstone.com/politics/politics-news/nicole-shanahan-rfk-jr-running-mate-ivf-1234996038/
      2. 
          
3. Yeah… yeah
   1. Woman suing in Texas for being labeled as a murder suspect and spending time in jail after abortion ban kicked in post Dobbs 
   2. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/mar/30/texas-woman-abortion-murder-sues
4. Big One
   1. Abortion pill has MAJORITY support as a medical option and majority support as mail delivery from Independents (and Dems, duh)
   2. https://www.axios.com/2024/03/29/abortion-pill-supreme-court-case-poll
   3. Erin Hawley - Joshua’s wife - argued against mifepristone in SCOTUS this past week and got OWNED
      1. https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/26/politics/takeaways-from-the-supreme-court-arguments-over-the-abortion-drug-mifepristone/index.html#:~:text=The%20Comstock%20Act%20has%20not,criminal%20prohibitions%20on%20mailing%20drugs
   4. In line with general feelings on birth control: https://missouriindependent.com/2024/03/29/birth-control-poll-missouri-contraceptives/
   5. Alabama big win - centered around IVF - pretty hard to ignore
5. 2024 Election Coverage Era
   1.  Trump team sets up GOP donations in a trickle down economics approach with Trump and his legal bills at the top: https://plus.thebulwark.com/p/trump-legal-fees-scam-rnc-republicans-know-it
   2. Trump serious problem? https://www.thedailybeast.com/trump-has-a-big-problem-with-gop-voters
6. RNC is big mad about Rona Romney-McDaniel being fired from MSNBC: https://www.politico.com/news/2024/03/28/rnc-nbc-convention-ronna-mcdaniel-00149620
7. Polling: https://www.270towin.com/2024-presidential-election-polls/national
8. Biden’s big NYC fundraiser with Obama and Clinton must have been a huge success based on the NY POST coverage: https://nypost.com/2024/03/28/opinion/president-bidens-25m-fundraiser-with-annie-leibovitz-is-the-height-of-dem-elitism/
9. Regular coverage; https://www.politico.com/news/2024/03/29/pro-palestinian-protesters-interrupted-bidens-glitzy-new-york-fundraiser-00149706
10. GOP has a problem with early and mail in voting: https://www.washingtonpost.com/elections/2024/03/28/trump-mail-early-voting-republicans/
11. Interesting read - the polling, author makes the case that 2024 is the election about elections: https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/daily-memo/2943777/2024-an-election-about-elections/
12. https://www.washingtonpost.com/elections/2024/03/28/trump-mail-early-voting-republicans/